FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Honda/Civic/10th Generation (2016-2021)/how to fix P0171 code in Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015)

how to fix P0171 code in Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015)

Honda Civic 10th Generation (2016-2021)

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

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix P0171 engine too lean condition in Honda Civic 2012-2015. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Error Code
P0171
Component
Engine
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before inspecting the intake and fuel systems.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle or stalling
  • •Decreased engine performance or power loss
  • •Poor fuel economy
  • •Increased emissions

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle with an OBD-II scanner to confirm the P0171 code and check for any additional trouble codes.
  2. 2Inspect the air intake system for vacuum leaks, including hoses and connections.
  3. 3Check the fuel pressure using a fuel pressure gauge to ensure it meets manufacturer specifications.
  4. 4Inspect the mass air flow (MAF) sensor for contamination or damage and check its readings.
  5. 5Examine the fuel injectors for proper operation and leaks.
  6. 6Inspect the throttle body for carbon buildup or obstructions.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather tools: OBD-II scanner, fuel pressure gauge, multimeter, cleaning supplies, and basic hand tools.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is off.

2. Address Vacuum Leaks

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Inspect all vacuum hoses connected to the intake manifold for cracks or disconnections.
    2. Use carburetor cleaner or a smoke machine to identify leaks by spraying near suspected areas while the engine is running.
    3. Replace any damaged hoses or seals.

3. Test and Clean MAF Sensor

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Disconnect the electrical connector from the MAF sensor.
    2. Remove the MAF sensor from the air intake duct using a socket set.
    3. Clean the MAF sensor using MAF cleaner spray, avoiding touching the sensor element.
    4. Reinstall the MAF sensor and reconnect the electrical connector.

4. Check Fuel Pressure

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Connect the fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail test port.
    2. Turn the key to the "ON" position without starting the engine to check initial pressure.
    3. Start the engine and observe fuel pressure; it should match manufacturer specifications (typically around 43-47 psi for Honda).
    4. If pressure is low, inspect the fuel pump and filter for issues.

5. Inspect and Test Fuel Injectors

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Remove the fuel rail with injectors attached.
    2. Test injectors for proper resistance using a multimeter (typically around 12-16 ohms).
    3. Clean or replace any faulty injectors.

6. Reassemble and Clear Codes

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Reinstall the fuel rail, throttle body, and MAF sensor.
    2. Reconnect all electrical connectors and vacuum hoses.
    3. Use the OBD-II scanner to clear the P0171 code.

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
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Basic hand tools
  • Socket set
  • Carburetor cleaner or MAF cleaner

Parts Required

  • Replacement vacuum hoses (if damaged)
  • Fuel filter (if needed)
  • Fuel injectors (if faulty)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0171
Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

7 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. why does my Honda Civic smell like burning oil

    Learn how to diagnose and fix burning oil smell in Honda Civic. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Burning oil smell in the cabin or around the engine bay
    • •Oil spots or stains on the ground where the vehicle is parked
    • +{count} more
  2. why does my Honda Civic pull to the right while driving

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the issue of your Honda Civic pulling to the right. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instruction...

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Vehicle consistently drifts to the right during straight driving.
    • •Uneven tire wear on the front tires.
    • +{count} more
  3. why does my Honda Civic engine rev up and down while idling

    Learn how to diagnose and fix fluctuating RPMs in Honda Civic. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Engine RPM fluctuates significantly while idling
    • •Possible stalling or rough idle
    • +{count} more
  4. how to replace the EGR valve on Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015)

    Step-by-step guide to replace the EGR valve on Honda Civic 2012-2015. Learn symptoms, diagnostic steps, tools, and safety tips for a successful repair...

    Component:Exhaust System
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Rough idle
    • +{count} more
  5. why is my Honda Civic's fuel gauge not working properly

    Learn how to diagnose and fix fuel gauge issues in Honda Civic. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Fuel System
    Symptoms
    • •Fuel gauge shows empty even with fuel in the tank
    • •Erratic fuel gauge readings while driving
    • +{count} more
  6. why does my Honda Civic make a popping noise when turning the steering wheel

    Learn how to diagnose and fix popping noise when turning the steering wheel in Honda Civic. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair i...

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Popping or clicking noise when turning the steering wheel.
    • •Noise occurs during both left and right turns.
    • +{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