FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/BMW/3 Series/E90/E91 (2005-2012)/my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) has a P0171 code, what does it mean?

my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) has a P0171 code, what does it mean?

BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: mediumError Code: P01712-4 hours
3 min read
585 words

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement The P0171 code indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected a lean fuel condition in the bank 1 of the engine for the BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012).

Error Code
P0171
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Safety Warnings:**
  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool down before opening any components related to the intake or fuel systems.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle or stalling
  • •Decreased engine performance
  • •Poor fuel economy
  • •Increased emissions
  • •Unusual engine noises (e.g., popping or backfiring)

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to confirm the P0171 code and check for additional codes.
  2. 2Inspect the air intake system for any vacuum leaks or cracks in hoses.
  3. 3Check the fuel pressure using a fuel pressure gauge to ensure it meets manufacturer specifications.
  4. 4Examine the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor for contamination or malfunction.
  5. 5Inspect the fuel injectors for proper operation and any signs of leakage.
  6. 6Evaluate the oxygen sensors to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather all required tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shorts.
  • Allow the engine to cool down before proceeding with repairs.

2. Inspect Air Intake System

  • Remove the air intake duct and visually inspect for cracks or loose connections.
  • Replace any damaged hoses or components.
  • Reinstall the air intake duct securely.

3. Fuel Pressure Check

  • Connect the fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail.
  • Turn the ignition to the ON position (without starting the engine) to check the fuel pressure.
  • If the pressure is below specification, check the fuel pump and filter for issues.
  • Replace the fuel filter if clogged, and if the pump is faulty, replace it.

4. Clean or Replace MAF Sensor

  • Disconnect the MAF sensor electrical connector.
  • Remove the MAF sensor from the air intake.
  • Clean the sensor with MAF sensor cleaner or replace it if damaged.
  • Reinstall the sensor and reconnect the electrical connector.

5. Check Fuel Injectors

  • Use a multimeter to check the resistance of each injector; refer to manufacturer specifications.
  • If any injector is out of range, replace it.
  • If they are functioning, ensure there are no leaks and clean the injectors if necessary.

6. Inspect Oxygen Sensors

  • Check the wiring and connections to the oxygen sensors for damage.
  • Use a scan tool to monitor the oxygen sensor readings; replace any faulty sensors.
  • Reconnect all components and the battery terminal.

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
  • Fuel pressure gauge
  • Multimeter
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench

Parts Required

  • Fuel filter
  • MAF sensor (if needed)
  • Fuel injectors (if needed)
  • Oxygen sensors (if needed)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0171
Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

5 items

Parts

4 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. how to reset the service light on my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012)

    ## Problem Statement The service light on a BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) needs to be reset after completing the required maintenance.

    Symptoms
    • •Service light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Maintenance reminder displayed on the instrument cluster
    • +{count} more
  2. my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) compressor clutch is not engaging how to fix it

    ## Problem Statement The air conditioning compressor clutch on a BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) is not engaging, resulting in a non-functional air c...

    Symptoms
    • •No cold air output from the A/C system
    • •A/C indicator light not illuminated on the dashboard
    • +{count} more
  3. how to fix my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 if the fuel gauge is stuck on empty?

    ## Problem Statement The fuel gauge in a BMW 3 Series E90/E91 is stuck on empty, indicating a possible issue with the fuel sender unit, wiring, or the...

    Symptoms
    • •Fuel gauge reading consistently shows empty
    • •Check engine light may be illuminated
    • +{count} more
  4. why is my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) making a loud popping noise when turning

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) is exhibiting a loud popping noise when turning, indicating a potential issue with the suspe...

    Symptoms
    • •Loud popping noise during turns
    • •Noise may vary with speed or steering angle
    • +{count} more
  5. how to diagnose BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) transmission hard shifting issues

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) is experiencing hard shifting issues, indicating potential transmission problems that requir...

    Symptoms
    • •Harsh or jerky shifting between gears
    • •Delayed engagement when shifting into drive or reverse
    • +{count} more
  6. my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) headlights are flickering, what should I check?

    ## Problem Statement The headlights on a BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) are flickering, indicating a potential electrical issue or component failure...

    Symptoms
    • •Headlights flicker intermittently
    • •Dimming of headlights when additional electrical loads are applied (e.g., air conditioning, wipers)
    • +{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