FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Honda/Civic/9th Generation (2012-2015)/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 9th Generation (2012-2015)

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

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix P0171 engine 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 or working on any components.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Poor acceleration or hesitation
  • •Decreased fuel economy
  • •Engine stalling or rough idle
  • •Increased emissions

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0171 and check for any additional codes.
  2. 2Inspect the air intake system for vacuum leaks, including hoses, gaskets, and the intake manifold.
  3. 3Check the mass air flow (MAF) sensor for dirt or damage and ensure proper operation.
  4. 4Test the fuel pressure to ensure it meets manufacturer specifications.
  5. 5Inspect the fuel injectors for clogs or malfunction.
  6. 6Verify the oxygen sensors' functionality and check their readings.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather tools and parts required for the repair.
  • Disconnect the battery to prevent electrical shorts.

2. Inspect and Repair Vacuum Leaks

  • Tools Required:
    • Vacuum gauge
    • Hose clamps
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Visually inspect all vacuum hoses and connections for cracks or disconnections.
    2. Use a vacuum gauge to test the intake manifold for leaks.
    3. Replace any damaged hoses or gaskets as necessary.

3. Clean or Replace MAF Sensor

  • Tools Required:
    • MAF sensor cleaner or electrical contact cleaner
    • Screwdriver set
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Locate the MAF sensor in the air intake duct.
    2. Disconnect the electrical connector and remove the sensor from the duct.
    3. Clean the sensor using MAF cleaner; do not touch the sensing elements.
    4. If damaged, replace the MAF sensor with a new one.

4. Check Fuel System

  • Tools Required:
    • Fuel pressure gauge
    • Socket set
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Connect the fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail.
    2. Turn the ignition key to the ON position (do not start) and check the pressure; it should be within manufacturer specs (typically around 40-50 psi).
    3. If the pressure is low, check the fuel pump and filter. Replace as necessary.

5. Inspect Fuel Injectors

  • Tools Required:
    • Multimeter
    • Fuel injector cleaning kit (if needed)
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Disconnect the fuel injector connectors.
    2. Use a multimeter to check the resistance of each injector (specifications vary by model).
    3. If any injector is out of specification, replace it. Otherwise, consider cleaning the injectors if they are clogged.

6. Replace Oxygen Sensors

  • Tools Required:
    • Oxygen sensor socket
    • Wrench set
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Locate the upstream and downstream oxygen sensors.
    2. Use the oxygen sensor socket to remove the faulty sensor(s).
    3. Install new oxygen sensors and connect the wiring.

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
  • Vacuum gauge
  • MAF sensor cleaner or electrical contact cleaner
  • Fuel pressure gauge
  • Socket set
  • Multimeter
  • Oxygen sensor socket

Parts Required

  • Vacuum hoses or gaskets (if damaged)
  • MAF sensor (if faulty)
  • Fuel filter (if needed)
  • Fuel injectors (if clogged or malfunctioning)
  • Oxygen sensors (if faulty)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0171
Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

7 items

Parts

5 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. how often should I change the oil in my Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015)

    Learn how often to change the oil in your Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and maintenance ...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Unclear maintenance schedule
    • •Potential for engine wear
    • +{count} more
  2. my Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015) battery warning light is on what does it mean

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the battery warning light issue in Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Battery warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Difficulty starting the engine
    • +{count} more
  3. how to troubleshoot the airbag light on my Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015)

    Learn how to troubleshoot and fix the airbag light issue on your Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Airbag warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Possible beeping or warning chimes when the ignition is turned on
    • +{count} more
  4. how can I prevent my Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015) from freezing up in winter?

    Learn how to prevent freezing issues in your Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015) during winter. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic and maintenance ...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Engine oil thickening, leading to difficult starts
    • •Windshield wiper fluid freezing in the reservoir
    • +{count} more
  5. what are the symptoms of a bad wheel bearing on Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015)

    Discover the symptoms of a bad wheel bearing on Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015) and learn how to diagnose and fix the issue with our step-by-st...

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Grinding or humming noise that increases with vehicle speed
    • •Vibration in the steering wheel or through the vehicle
    • +{count} more
  6. why does my Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015) engine overheat frequently

    Learn how to diagnose and fix overheating issues in Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair i...

    Component:Cooling System
    Symptoms
    • •Engine temperature gauge reading higher than normal
    • •Coolant leaking under the vehicle
    • +{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