FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Volkswagen/Golf/MK8.5 (2024-Present)/how to fix P0171 code in Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019)

how to fix P0171 code in Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019)

Volkswagen Golf MK8.5 (2024-Present)

Severity: highDifficulty: mediumError Code: P01712-4 hours
3 min read
572 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 engine lean condition in Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019). 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 components.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before working on the fuel system or exhaust components.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle or stalling
  • •Poor fuel economy
  • •Decreased engine power
  • •Excessive engine noise during acceleration

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle using an OBD-II scanner to confirm the P0171 code and check for any related codes.
  2. 2Inspect the air intake system for vacuum leaks, including hoses and gaskets.
  3. 3Check the fuel system for proper pressure using a fuel pressure gauge.
  4. 4Inspect the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor for dirt or damage.
  5. 5Examine the oxygen sensors for proper functioning.
  6. 6Verify that the engine is not overheating and that coolant levels are adequate.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to ensure safety during repairs.
  • Allow the engine to cool completely.

2. Inspect and Repair Vacuum Leaks

  • Tools Required: Vacuum gauge, hose clamps, duct tape.
  • Procedure:
    1. Use a vacuum gauge to check for proper vacuum levels.
    2. Visually inspect all vacuum hoses for cracks or disconnections.
    3. Repair or replace any damaged hoses.
    4. Recheck vacuum levels after repairs.

3. Clean or Replace MAF Sensor

  • Tools Required: MAF sensor cleaner, screwdriver, safety glasses.
  • Procedure:
    1. Locate the MAF sensor in the air intake duct.
    2. Disconnect the electrical connector from the sensor.
    3. Remove the sensor using a screwdriver.
    4. Clean the sensor with MAF sensor cleaner, following the product instructions.
    5. Reinstall the sensor and reconnect the electrical connector.

4. Test Fuel Pressure

  • Tools Required: Fuel pressure gauge, safety goggles.
  • Procedure:
    1. Locate the fuel rail and attach the fuel pressure gauge.
    2. Turn the ignition key to the "ON" position without starting the engine and check the pressure reading.
    3. Compare the reading to the manufacturer's specifications (usually around 50-60 psi for MK7).
    4. If pressure is low, check the fuel pump operation and replace it if necessary.

5. Inspect and Replace Oxygen Sensors

  • Tools Required: O2 sensor socket, wrench.
  • Procedure:
    1. Locate the upstream and downstream oxygen sensors.
    2. Disconnect the electrical connectors from both sensors.
    3. Use an O2 sensor socket to remove the sensors from the exhaust system.
    4. Install new oxygen sensors, ensuring proper torque specifications (usually around 30 lb-ft).
    5. Reconnect the electrical connectors.

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
  • Fuel pressure gauge
  • MAF sensor cleaner
  • O2 sensor socket
  • Safety goggles
  • Screwdriver
  • Hose clamps
  • Duct tape

Parts Required

  • MAF sensor (if damaged)
  • Oxygen sensors (if faulty)
  • Vacuum hoses (if worn)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0171
Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

9 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. how to resolve the B1000 code issue in my Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019)

    B1000

    Learn how to diagnose and fix B1000 electrical issues in Volkswagen Golf MK7. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Inoperative or malfunctioning electronic components (e.g., windows, locks)
    • +{count} more
  2. why does my Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019) smell like gas inside

    Learn how to diagnose and fix gasoline smell inside your 2015-2019 Volkswagen Golf MK7. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instr...

    Component:Fuel System
    Symptoms
    • •Strong gasoline odor inside the vehicle cabin
    • •Possible fuel leakage on the ground under the vehicle
    • +{count} more
  3. why are my Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019) power locks not working

    Learn how to diagnose and fix power locks not working on Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repa...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Power lock buttons do not respond when pressed
    • •Key fob fails to lock or unlock the vehicle
    • +{count} more
  4. how to fix the P0174 code in my Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019)

    P0174

    Learn how to diagnose and fix P0174 engine too lean issue in Volkswagen Golf MK7. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instruction...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Rough idle or stalling
    • +{count} more
  5. Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019) why does my radio keep cutting out

    Learn how to diagnose and fix radio cutting out issues in Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and rep...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Radio displays 'No Signal' or 'Searching' messages intermittently
    • •Audio cuts out completely for several seconds or minutes
    • +{count} more
  6. why does my Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019) steering wheel shake when braking

    Learn how to diagnose and fix steering wheel shake when braking in Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019). Step-by-step guide with symptoms and repair instru...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Steering wheel vibrates during braking
    • •Pulsation felt in brake pedal
    • +{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