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P0171 — System Too Lean — Bank 1

Medium Severity  ·  Fuel System

OBD-II code P0171 means your vehicle's ECU detected: System Too Lean — Bank 1. Below: causes, step-by-step fixes, and repair cost — free, no signup needed.

Drivable short-term but schedule a diagnosis soon. Prolonged driving can worsen the issue.
Typical Repair Cost
$75–$700
Parts + labor, national average
Severity
Medium
Schedule repair soon
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Common Causes of P0171

  • Vacuum leak (most common)
  • Dirty or failing MAF sensor
  • Weak fuel pump
  • Clogged fuel injectors
  • Bad O2 sensor
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How to Fix Code P0171

1
Spray carburetor cleaner around intake to find vacuum leaks
2
Clean MAF sensor with MAF cleaner spray ($8)
3
Check fuel pressure
4
Replace O2 sensor if others ruled out

FAQ — Code P0171

What does OBD-II code P0171 mean?
P0171 means your vehicle's onboard computer detected: System Too Lean — Bank 1. This is a medium-severity code in the Fuel System category.
How much does it cost to fix code P0171?
Typical repair cost for P0171 is $75–$700 including parts and labor. Costs vary by vehicle make, model, and location. A free scan at AutoZone or O'Reilly is a good first step.
Can I drive my car with code P0171?
Code P0171 is generally safe for short trips, but have it diagnosed soon to prevent the problem from worsening.
What are the most common causes of P0171?
The most common causes are: Vacuum leak (most common), Dirty or failing MAF sensor, Weak fuel pump, Clogged fuel injectors, Bad O2 sensor. Always start with the cheapest diagnosis step before replacing parts.
Will code P0171 clear itself?
Code P0171 will clear itself after the underlying issue is fixed and the ECU completes several successful drive cycles. Clearing it without fixing the root cause only masks the problem temporarily.

Is P0171 showing on your car?

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OBD-II code data is based on SAE J2012 standards and general repair industry data. Repair costs are national averages and vary by vehicle, location, and shop. Always consult a qualified mechanic for a diagnosis specific to your vehicle.