FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Ford/F-150/12th Generation (2009-2014)/how to fix P0174 code in Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014)

how to fix P0174 code in Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014)

Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014)

Severity: highDifficulty: mediumError Code: P01742-4 hours
4 min read
606 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix P0174 lean condition in Ford F-150 12th Generation. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Error Code
P0174
Component
Engine
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow engine to cool before opening any components.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle or stalling
  • •Decreased engine performance or power
  • •Poor fuel economy
  • •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 air intake system for any vacuum leaks or damaged hoses that could allow excess air into the engine.
  3. 3Check the mass airflow sensor (MAF) for proper function and cleanliness.
  4. 4Inspect fuel pressure with a fuel pressure gauge to ensure it meets specifications.
  5. 5Examine the fuel injectors for clogs or malfunctions.
  6. 6Inspect the exhaust system for any restrictions that could affect air-fuel mixture readings.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface.
  • Disconnect the vehicle's battery to prevent electrical shorts.

2. Inspect Air Intake System

  • Sub-steps:
    • Visually inspect the intake manifold and vacuum hoses for cracks or disconnected segments.
    • Use a smoke machine to detect vacuum leaks if necessary.
  • Tools Required: Smoke machine (optional), flashlight.

3. Clean MAF Sensor

  • Sub-steps:
    • Remove the MAF sensor from the air intake duct.
    • Spray MAF cleaner on the sensor elements and allow to dry.
    • Reinstall the MAF sensor securely.
  • Tools Required: Torx screwdriver, MAF cleaner spray.
  • Safety Warnings: Avoid touching the sensor elements directly as they are fragile.

4. Check Fuel Pressure

  • Sub-steps:
    • Connect a fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail test port.
    • Turn the ignition key to the ON position (do not start) and check the fuel pressure reading.
    • Compare the reading to the manufacturer’s specifications (usually around 30-50 psi).
    • If pressure is low, check the fuel pump and filter.
  • Tools Required: Fuel pressure gauge.
  • Safety Warnings: Relieve fuel pressure before disconnecting fuel lines to prevent spraying fuel.

5. Inspect Fuel Injectors

  • Sub-steps:
    • Remove the engine cover if necessary to access fuel injectors.
    • Check for any visible leaks around the injectors.
    • Use a noid light to test injector pulse while cranking the engine.
    • Replace any faulty injectors as required.
  • Tools Required: Noid light, socket set.

6. Reassemble and Clear Codes

  • Sub-steps:
    • Reinstall any components removed during the inspection.
    • Reconnect the battery.
    • Use the OBD-II scanner to clear the P0174 code.
  • Tools Required: OBD-II scanner.

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
  • Torx screwdriver
  • MAF cleaner spray
  • Noid light
  • Socket set

Parts Required

  • Mass airflow sensor (if faulty)
  • Fuel filter (if clogged)
  • Fuel injectors (if faulty)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0174
Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

6 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. why does my Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014) have a rough start in the morning

    Learn how to diagnose and fix rough start issues in Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and re...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Engine cranks longer than usual before starting
    • •Rough idle immediately after starting
    • +{count} more
  2. my Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014) makes a grinding noise when shifting

    Learn how to diagnose and fix grinding noise during gear shifts in Ford F-150 12th Generation. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repai...

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Grinding noise during gear shifts
    • •Difficulty engaging gears
    • +{count} more
  3. why does my Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014) stall when I come to a stop

    Learn how to diagnose and fix engine stalling issues in Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repa...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Engine stalling at idle or when coming to a stop
    • •Rough idle or fluctuations in engine RPM
    • +{count} more
  4. how to diagnose a fuel pump issue in Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix fuel pump issues in Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repa...

    Component:Fuel System
    Symptoms
    • •Engine cranks but does not start
    • •Intermittent stalling while driving
    • +{count} more
  5. why does my Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014) engine hesitate during acceleration

    Learn how to diagnose and fix engine hesitation during acceleration in Ford F-150 (2009-2014). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repai...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Engine hesitates or stutters when accelerating
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • +{count} more
  6. why does my Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014) engine sputter during acceleration

    Learn how to diagnose and fix engine sputtering during acceleration in Ford F-150 (2009-2014). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Engine sputters during acceleration
    • •Loss of power when accelerating
    • +{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