FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/BMW/5 Series/G30/G31 (2017-2024)/how to fix my BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024) with P0171 lean code

how to fix my BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024) with P0171 lean code

BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024)

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

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement The BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024) is exhibiting a P0171 lean code, indicating a lean air-fuel mixture in the engine, which may lead to performance issues and increased emission

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 before opening the radiator or working on fuel systems.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle or engine misfires
  • •Loss of power during acceleration
  • •Poor fuel economy
  • •Increased emissions
  • •Unusual hissing or whistling noises from the engine bay

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to confirm the P0171 code and check for any additional codes.
  2. 2Inspect the engine air intake system for vacuum leaks, focusing on hoses, gaskets, and the throttle body.
  3. 3Check the mass air flow (MAF) sensor for proper operation and cleanliness.
  4. 4Verify fuel delivery by checking fuel pressure with a gauge.
  5. 5Inspect the fuel injectors for clogs or leaks.
  6. 6Evaluate the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor for correct readings.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather tools and parts needed for repair.
  • Disconnect the battery before starting work on electrical components.
  • Allow the engine to cool down before working.

2. Inspect and Repair Air Intake System

  • Tools Required: Visual inspection tools, flashlight
  • Check for any damaged or disconnected vacuum hoses; replace as needed.
  • Inspect the intake manifold gaskets for wear; replace if necessary.
  • Tighten any loose clamps on the air intake.

3. Clean or Replace MAF Sensor

  • Tools Required: MAF cleaner, screwdriver
  • Remove the MAF sensor from the intake.
  • Clean the sensor using MAF cleaner; do not touch the sensor element.
  • If cleaning does not resolve the issue, replace the MAF sensor with a new one.

4. Test Fuel System

  • Tools Required: Fuel pressure gauge
  • Connect the fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail.
  • Start the engine and check the fuel pressure against the manufacturer's specifications (typically 50-60 psi).
  • If pressure is low, inspect the fuel pump and filter for issues and replace as necessary.

5. Inspect Fuel Injectors

  • Tools Required: Injector cleaning kit or replacement injectors
  • Remove the fuel rail to access the injectors.
  • Check for leaks and clogs; clean or replace injectors as needed.

6. Replace ECT Sensor (if necessary)

  • Tools Required: Socket set
  • Locate and disconnect the ECT sensor.
  • Remove the sensor and replace it with a new one.
  • Reconnect the wiring harness.

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

  • Check for any damaged or disconnected vacuum hoses; replace as needed.
  • Inspect the intake manifold gaskets for wear; replace if necessary.
  • Tighten any loose clamps on the air intake.

Parts Required

  • Replacement vacuum hoses (if damaged)
  • MAF sensor (if cleaning does not resolve the issue)
  • Fuel injectors (if clogged or leaking)
  • Engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor (if faulty)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0171
Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

3 items

Parts

4 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. why does my BMW 5 Series make a hissing sound while driving

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 5 Series is producing a hissing sound while driving, which may indicate an underlying mechanical issue that requires inve...

    Symptoms
    • •Hissing noise audible during acceleration or deceleration
    • •Decreased engine performance
    • +{count} more
  2. why is my BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024) steering wheel shaking at high speeds?

    ## Problem Statement The steering wheel of a BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024) is shaking at high speeds, indicating potential issues with wheel balanc...

    Symptoms
    • •Steering wheel shakes or vibrates at speeds above 50 mph
    • •Uneven tire wear
    • +{count} more
  3. how to reset the check engine light on BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024)

    ## Problem Statement The check engine light on a 2017-2024 BMW 5 Series G30/G31 needs to be reset, typically after addressing the underlying issue tha...

    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Possible error codes stored in the vehicle's ECU
    • +{count} more
  4. why does my BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024) make a hissing noise when I start the engine?

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024) is producing a hissing noise upon engine start-up, indicating a potential issue with the int...

    Symptoms
    • •Hissing noise during engine start
    • •Possible rough idle or irregular engine performance
    • +{count} more
  5. why does my BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024) make a whistling sound at high speeds?

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024) is exhibiting a whistling sound when driven at high speeds, indicating a possible issue with...

    Symptoms
    • •Whistling sound increases with vehicle speed
    • •Sound is more pronounced when windows are open
    • +{count} more
  6. how to fix P0706 code in my BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024)?

    P0706

    ## Problem Statement The P0706 code indicates a problem with the transmission range sensor (or transmission position sensor) in your BMW 5 Series G30/...

    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Erratic shifting or inability to shift gears
    • +{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