P0171 Code on My 2015 Chevy Cruze - Need Help!

Maintenance and Repairs
1

I’ve been dealing with a check engine light on my 2015 Chevy Cruze, and the diagnostic revealed a P0171 trouble code. From what I’ve gathered, this code indicates a lean fuel condition, which could be due to various issues.

Common Causes of P0171

  • Vacuum Leaks: A common culprit, vacuum leaks can occur in any of the hoses or gaskets in the intake system. Check for any cracked hoses or loose fittings.
  • Faulty Fuel Pump: If the fuel pump isn’t delivering the correct pressure, it can lead to a lean condition. Testing the fuel pressure might help rule this out.
  • Clogged Fuel Filter: A clogged filter can restrict fuel flow, leading to performance issues. It may be time for a replacement if it’s been a while.
  • MAF Sensor Issues: Sometimes, a dirty or malfunctioning Mass Airflow Sensor can skew the readings, affecting the air-fuel mixture.

Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Visual Inspection: Start with a thorough visual inspection of hoses and intake components for any signs of wear or damage.
  2. Check Fuel Pressure: Use a fuel pressure gauge to see if the fuel pump is operating within specifications.
  3. Examine the MAF Sensor: Clean the MAF sensor with appropriate cleaner and check it for faults using a scan tool.
  4. Smoke Test: If you suspect a vacuum leak, performing a smoke test can help identify leaks that are otherwise hard to spot.

Seeking Insights

Has anyone else here experienced the P0171 code with their Cruze? What steps did you take to resolve the issue? Any insights or tips would be greatly appreciated! I’m really hoping to get this resolved soon without breaking the bank on repairs. Thanks in advance for any help you can provide!

2

I recently got the P0171 code on my Cruze, and I’ve noticed rough idling and worse fuel efficiency. It really started affecting my drives to work.

7 Likes
3

It’s so frustrating! Along with the rough idling, my acceleration feels sluggish too. Has anyone else experienced that?

4

Yes, definitely! The sluggish acceleration is really annoying. Sometimes, it feels like my car is dragging. Any ideas on what could cause this?

5

I’ve dealt with poor fuel consumption too. It used to last me a week per tank, but now it barely makes it to five days!

6

I’ve heard that a dirty mass airflow sensor can trigger the P0171 code and cause similar symptoms. Have you guys checked yours?

7

That makes sense! I noticed some debris around mine. I’ll clean it and see if that helps.

8

In addition to fuel issues, I felt my car hesitating on starts. This P0171 code has been such a headache!

9

I can relate! When I turn my car on, it sometimes sputters like it’s struggling!

8 Likes
10

My fuel consumption increased drastically too, and I feel like I’m always at the gas station. What gives?

11

It’s such a hassle! Last time, I joked that I should just buy a gas station with how often I refill.

1 Like
12

I’m curious! Could the O2 sensors also be part of the issue for this P0171 code? I’ve read mixed things.

3 Likes
13

They might be! I had to change mine recently. The symptoms were definitely similar.

2 Likes
14

Honestly, it’s frustrating how many factors can cause the P0171 code. I hope we all find a fix soon!

15

I just got the P0171 code on my 2015 Chevy Cruze too! I’ve read that vacuum leaks are a common culprit. Have you checked the hoses?

16

That’s so true! I found a small crack in the intake hose that was causing mine to throw the code. It’s worth a close inspection!

17

Another issue could be the mass air flow sensor. If it’s malfunctioning, that could lead to incorrect air-fuel mixture readings. I’ve had to clean mine before.

18

Good point! My mechanic told me it can get dirty, affecting performance. Cleaning it might solve the problem!

19

Don’t forget about the fuel injectors! If they’re clogged or faulty, they won’t deliver fuel properly, which could trigger the P0171 code as well.

2 Likes
20

Exactly! I had my injectors cleaned and there was a noticeable difference in performance. Definitely something to consider!