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

how to fix P0171 code on BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024)?

BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024)

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

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement The P0171 code indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected a lean air-fuel mixture in the engine of a BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024).

Error Code
P0171
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

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

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle
  • •Engine stalling or hesitation during acceleration
  • •Decreased fuel efficiency
  • •Increased exhaust emissions
  • •Unusual engine noise (e.g., backfiring)

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0171 and check for any related codes.
  2. 2Inspect the air intake system for leaks, including hoses, clamps, and the intake manifold.
  3. 3Check the mass air flow (MAF) sensor for proper operation and cleanliness.
  4. 4Inspect the fuel delivery system, including fuel pressure and fuel filter condition.
  5. 5Examine the oxygen sensors for proper function and check for any exhaust leaks.
  6. 6Verify that the engine is not experiencing vacuum leaks by performing a smoke test if necessary.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and the engine is cool.
  • Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent electrical shorts.

2. Inspect and Repair Air Intake System

  • Tools Required: Socket set, screwdrivers, vacuum gauge
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Visually inspect all vacuum hoses connected to the intake manifold for cracks or disconnections.
    2. Tighten or replace any loose or damaged hoses.
    3. Remove the air intake duct and inspect it for damage or blockages.
    4. Reinstall the air intake duct securely.

3. Clean or Replace MAF Sensor

  • Tools Required: MAF cleaner, torx screwdriver
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Disconnect the MAF sensor electrical connector.
    2. Remove the MAF sensor from the air intake system.
    3. Spray MAF cleaner on the sensor element and allow it to dry completely.
    4. Reinstall the MAF sensor and reconnect the electrical connector.

4. Check Fuel System

  • Tools Required: Fuel pressure gauge
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Connect the fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail test port.
    2. Turn the ignition on (do not start the engine) and check the fuel pressure.
    3. Ensure the fuel pressure is within specifications (refer to service manual for exact values).
    4. If pressure is low, inspect the fuel pump, fuel filter, and fuel injectors for issues.

5. Inspect Oxygen Sensors and Exhaust System

  • Tools Required: O2 sensor socket, multimeter
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Visually inspect the exhaust system for any leaks.
    2. Test the upstream oxygen sensor using a multimeter to ensure it is functioning correctly.
    3. Replace the oxygen sensor if readings are outside of normal parameters.
    4. Repair any exhaust leaks found during inspection.

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
  • Socket set
  • Screwdrivers
  • Vacuum gauge
  • Fuel pressure gauge
  • MAF cleaner
  • O2 sensor socket
  • Multimeter

Parts Required

  • Mass air flow (MAF) sensor (if needed)
  • Oxygen sensor (if needed)
  • Vacuum hoses (if needed)
  • Fuel filter (if needed)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0171
Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

8 items

Parts

4 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. my BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024) keeps stalling, what could be the issue?

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024) is experiencing stalling issues, which could indicate a range of underlying problems affecti...

    Symptoms
    • •Engine stalling during idle or while driving
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • +{count} more
  2. my BMW 5 Series makes a grinding noise when turning what could it be

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 5 Series is producing a grinding noise when turning, indicating a potential issue with the steering or suspension compone...

    Symptoms
    • •Grinding noise while turning the steering wheel
    • •Possible vibrations in the steering wheel
    • +{count} more
  3. how to fix my BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024) transmission slipping when shifting

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024) is experiencing transmission slipping during gear shifts, which can lead to poor performance...

    Symptoms
    • •Transmission hesitates or delays when shifting gears
    • •RPMs increase without corresponding acceleration
    • +{count} more
  4. how to diagnose electrical issues in my BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024)

    ## Problem Statement The issue involves diagnosing electrical problems in a BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024) model that may be causing malfunctions in...

    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Inconsistent dashboard warning lights
    • +{count} more
  5. how to diagnose turbo issues in my BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024)

    ## Problem Statement The user is experiencing potential turbo issues in a BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024) and seeks to diagnose the problem effective...

    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Loss of power during acceleration
    • +{count} more
  6. why does my BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024) emit white smoke from the exhaust

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 5 Series G30/G31 (2017-2024) is emitting white smoke from the exhaust, indicating a potential issue with the engine or fu...

    Symptoms
    • •White smoke visible from the exhaust during engine operation
    • •Sweet smell of coolant in the exhaust
    • +{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