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

how to resolve a P0171 code in my Tesla Model 3 Original (2017-2023)?

Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present)

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

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix P0171 engine too lean condition in Tesla Model 3. 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 or fuel systems.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before inspecting components to prevent burns.

Symptoms

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

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner and confirm P0171.
  2. 2Inspect the air intake system for leaks or cracks in hoses and connections.
  3. 3Check the fuel pressure with a fuel pressure gauge to ensure proper delivery from the fuel pump.
  4. 4Inspect the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor and clean it if necessary.
  5. 5Examine the fuel injectors for proper operation and clogs.
  6. 6Review the engine's vacuum system for leaks.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical issues during repairs.

2. Inspect Air Intake System

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Remove the engine cover if applicable.
    2. Visually inspect all hoses and connections in the air intake path for cracks or loose fittings.
    3. Replace any damaged hoses or tighten loose connections.

3. Check Fuel Pressure

  • Tools Required: Fuel pressure gauge
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Locate the fuel rail access point.
    2. Connect the fuel pressure gauge to the access point.
    3. Turn the ignition to the ON position without starting the engine to check pressure readings.
    4. If pressure is below specifications (consult repair manual for values), consider replacing the fuel pump.

4. Inspect and Clean MAF Sensor

  • Tools Required: MAF cleaner or isopropyl alcohol
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Locate the MAF sensor in the air intake duct.
    2. Disconnect the electrical connector from the MAF sensor.
    3. Carefully remove the MAF sensor from its housing.
    4. Spray the MAF cleaner onto the sensor element and allow it to dry completely before reinstalling.

5. Examine Fuel Injectors

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Inspect the injectors for signs of leaks or clogs.
    2. If necessary, remove the fuel rail to access the injectors.
    3. Clean or replace clogged injectors as needed.

6. Check for Vacuum Leaks

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Use a smoke machine or spray soapy water around vacuum lines and intake manifold to identify leaks.
    2. Replace any damaged vacuum hoses.
    3. Tighten any loose clamps or fittings.

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
  • MAF cleaner or isopropyl alcohol
  • Socket set
  • Screwdrivers

Parts Required

  • Replacement hoses (if damaged)
  • Fuel pump (if fuel pressure is insufficient)
  • MAF sensor (if faulty)
  • Fuel injectors (if clogged)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0171
Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

5 items

Parts

4 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. how to diagnose my Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present) rough idle issue

    Learn how to diagnose and fix rough idle issues in the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructi...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Engine vibrations felt during idle
    • +{count} more
  2. 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
  3. how to troubleshoot the parking brake not releasing in Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present)

    Learn how to troubleshoot and fix the parking brake not releasing in Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedu...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Parking brake warning message displayed on the dashboard
    • •Unable to shift from Park to Drive
    • +{count} more
  4. 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
  5. how to fix P0171 code in Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present)

    P0171

    Learn how to diagnose and fix P0171 engine lean condition in Tesla Model 3 Highland. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instruct...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Rough idle or unstable engine performance
    • +{count} more
  6. how to troubleshoot my Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present) brake lights not working

    Learn how to troubleshoot and fix brake lights not working on Tesla Model 3 Highland. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic steps and repair instructions...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Brake lights do not illuminate when the brake pedal is pressed
    • •Dashboard warning light indicating a potential brake system issue
    • +{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