FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Tesla/Model 3/Highland (2024-present)/how to fix the P0171 code on a Tesla Model 3 Original (2017-2023)

how to fix the P0171 code on a Tesla Model 3 Original (2017-2023)

Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present)

Severity: highDifficulty: mediumError Code: P01712-4 hours
4 min read
602 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 P0171 fuel system issue in Tesla Model 3 (2017-2023). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Error Code
P0171
Component
Fuel System
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
  • •Poor acceleration or loss of power
  • •Rough idle or stalling
  • •Increased fuel consumption
  • •Unusual engine noises, such as backfiring

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the P0171 code and check for any other related codes.
  2. 2Inspect the air intake system for any leaks or cracks in the intake hoses and connections.
  3. 3Check the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor for contamination or damage.
  4. 4Test the fuel pressure to ensure it meets manufacturer specifications.
  5. 5Inspect fuel injectors for clogs or leaks.
  6. 6Verify the operation of the fuel pump and fuel filter.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather all necessary tools and parts.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and the parking brake is engaged.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shorts.

2. Inspect and Repair Air Intake System

  • Tools Required: Socket set, screwdrivers
  • Instructions:
    1. Remove the engine cover (if applicable) using the appropriate socket.
    2. Inspect the intake hoses for cracks or loose connections; replace any damaged hoses.
    3. Reattach all connections securely and ensure the air filter is clean.

3. Clean or Replace MAF Sensor

  • Tools Required: MAF sensor cleaner, torx driver
  • Instructions:
    1. Locate the MAF sensor in the air intake duct.
    2. Disconnect the electrical connector and remove the sensor using the torx driver.
    3. Spray the MAF sensor with MAF cleaner and allow it to dry completely.
    4. Reinstall the sensor and reconnect the electrical connector.

4. Check Fuel System

  • Tools Required: Fuel pressure gauge, multimeter
  • Instructions:
    1. Connect the fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail test port.
    2. Turn the ignition to the "ON" position without starting the engine to check fuel pressure; it should meet manufacturer specifications (usually around 50-60 psi).
    3. If pressure is low, inspect the fuel pump and filter for functionality and replace as needed.

5. Inspect and Test Fuel Injectors

  • Tools Required: Fuel injector cleaner, multimeter
  • Instructions:
    1. Remove the fuel injectors from the rail.
    2. Clean the injectors using a fuel injector cleaning kit.
    3. Test each injector's resistance with a multimeter; it should be within specifications (typically 12-16 ohms).
    4. Replace any faulty injectors.

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
  • MAF sensor cleaner
  • Fuel pressure gauge
  • Multimeter
  • Fuel injector cleaner

Parts Required

  • Replacement air intake hoses (if damaged)
  • MAF sensor (if faulty)
  • Fuel filter (if needed)
  • Fuel injectors (if faulty)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0171
Component

Fuel System

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

7 items

Parts

4 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. how to clear the P0456 code on my Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present)

    P0456

    Learn how to diagnose and fix P0456 EVAP leak in Tesla Model 3 Highland. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Fuel System
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Decreased fuel efficiency
    • +{count} more
  2. how to fix the rear parking sensors not working in my Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present)?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix rear parking sensors not working in Tesla Model 3 Highland. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair ins...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Rear parking sensor warning message displayed on the dashboard
    • •No audible alerts when reversing
    • +{count} more
  3. why does my Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present) have a low grinding noise when driving

    Learn how to diagnose and fix low grinding noise in Tesla Model 3 Highland. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Low grinding noise during acceleration and deceleration
    • •Noise increases with vehicle speed
    • +{count} more
  4. why does my Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present) have a loud noise coming from the rear?

    Discover how to diagnose and fix loud noise from the rear of your Tesla Model 3 Highland. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic steps and repair instruct...

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Loud noise when driving, particularly over bumps or uneven surfaces
    • •Noise increases with speed
    • +{count} more
  5. why do I get a "service required" message on my Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the 'service required' message on your Tesla Model 3 Highland. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair ...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Service required message displayed on the dashboard
    • •Decreased vehicle performance
    • +{count} more
  6. how to diagnose a misfire in my Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix misfire issues in Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instru...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Loss of power during acceleration
    • •Rough or uneven engine idle
    • +{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