FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Volkswagen/Golf/Eighth Generation (2020-present)/how to fix P0174 code in Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

how to fix P0174 code in Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: mediumError Code: P01742-4 hours
4 min read
605 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix P0174 engine lean condition in Volkswagen Golf (2020-present). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Error Code
P0174
Component
Engine
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow engine components to cool before inspection or repair.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle or stalling
  • •Poor acceleration or loss of power
  • •Decreased fuel efficiency
  • •Unusual engine noises (e.g., hissing sounds)
  • •Increased emissions

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to confirm the P0174 code and check for any additional codes.
  2. 2Inspect the intake system for vacuum leaks, including hoses, gaskets, and the intake manifold.
  3. 3Check the fuel system pressure with a fuel pressure gauge to ensure proper fuel delivery.
  4. 4Inspect the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor for dirt or damage and clean or replace if necessary.
  5. 5Examine the fuel injectors for clogs or improper operation.
  6. 6Check the engine coolant temperature sensor for proper readings.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shorts.
  • Ensure the engine is cool before starting work.

2. Inspect and Repair Vacuum Leaks

  • Sub-steps:
    • Visually inspect all vacuum hoses for cracks, breaks, or loose connections.
    • Use a smoke machine or carburetor cleaner to detect leaks around the intake manifold and vacuum lines.
    • Replace any damaged hoses or gaskets found during inspection.

3. Clean or Replace MAF Sensor

  • Sub-steps:
    • Locate the MAF sensor on the air intake duct.
    • Disconnect the electrical connector and remove the sensor using a Torx screwdriver.
    • Clean the sensor with MAF cleaner spray (do not use other cleaners).
    • If the sensor is damaged or cleaning does not resolve the issue, replace it with a new one.
    • Reinstall the sensor and reconnect the electrical connector.

4. Check and Repair Fuel System

  • Sub-steps:
    • Connect a fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail.
    • Turn the ignition to the "ON" position (do not start) and check the pressure reading against manufacturer specifications.
    • If pressure is low, check the fuel pump, filter, and relay for issues.
    • Inspect fuel injectors for clogs and replace if necessary.

5. Test and Replace Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor (if needed)

  • Sub-steps:
    • Locate the engine coolant temperature sensor.
    • Disconnect the sensor and use a multimeter to check its resistance against specifications at various temperatures.
    • If out of specifications, replace the sensor with a new one.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Vacuum gauge
  • Fuel pressure gauge
  • MAF cleaner spray
  • Torque wrench
  • Multimeter
  • Basic hand tools (screwdrivers, pliers, etc.)

Parts Required

  • Vacuum hoses (if damaged)
  • MAF sensor (if defective)
  • Fuel filter (if clogged)
  • Engine coolant temperature sensor (if faulty)
  • Fuel injectors (if clogged or damaged)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0174
Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

7 items

Parts

5 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. why is the warning light for the brakes on my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present) on

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the brake warning light issue in your Volkswagen Golf (2020-2023). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and rep...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Brake warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Reduced braking performance or spongy brake pedal
    • +{count} more
  2. my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present) gear shift is stuck, what can I do

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a stuck gear shift in the 2020-present Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures ...

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Gear shift cannot be moved from the current position
    • •Dashboard indicator lights may be illuminated
    • +{count} more
  3. how do I fix my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present) that stalls at stop signs

    Learn how to diagnose and fix engine stalling issues in Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair in...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Engine stalls when idling or coming to a stop
    • •Rough idling prior to stalling
    • +{count} more
  4. why does my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present) make a rattling noise at idle

    Learn how to diagnose and fix rattling noise at idle in Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair in...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Rattling noise from the engine bay at idle
    • •Noise persists when the vehicle is stationary
    • +{count} more
  5. why does my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present) smell like gas

    Learn how to diagnose and fix gasoline smell issues in Volkswagen Golf 8th Generation. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair ...

    Component:Fuel System
    Symptoms
    • •Strong gasoline odor around the vehicle
    • •Fuel leak visible on the ground or underneath the vehicle
    • +{count} more
  6. how to reset the check engine light on my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

    Learn how to reset the Check Engine light on your 2020-present Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and to...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check Engine light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Potential visible error codes if scanned
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation