Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Zetec Maintenance Code P0171

Any input is appreciated !!

The code P0171 was on my car this weekend. It read: "TOO LEAN".


What is the deal ???

I believe it means your fuel mixture is running to lean. When I had that problem it think it was my idel control valve.

u had the same code ??

what did u do to fix it ??

how do u adjust the idle control valve ??

where is it ??



Later

Check for vacuum leaks. Check for any disconnected vacuum hoses. I have the same code but it comes on once a week after I clear it. I cleaned the MAF meter yesterday with electrical motor cleaner spray, then sprayed it with electronic contact cleaner. I test drove the car last night and it seems to run better. I didn't get the pinging at high rpm that I usually get from running lean. I haven't driven it long enough to verify that MAF meter was the problem but I will post in a week or so if the problem has gone away permanently.

don't say that word !!! [ping]

Just cleaning the electrical contacts really help ???

What product did u use it ?

Later

I asked my local mechanic about cleaning the MAF sensor, he suggests using a Q-Tip dipped in rubbing alcohol and very gently wipe only the wire of the MAF until it comes clean (you'll see black stuff on the Q-Tip as you clean it-I did!)

Try giving your O2 Sensors a clean too. Use anti seize when re-installing them.

I had similar problems with my car and ended up changing both O2 sensors, having the MAF and IAC cleaned at FORD among other things. I just had a crack repaired in my exhaust manifold (wonder if this caused/contributed to any of the problems I had) maybe check under the heat shield to see if you have one too!

Good Luck

Dirty MAF is probably the #1 cause of "too lean" codes, vacuum leak is probably #2.

Those with an aftermarket air filter may have to clean their MAF at least once a year.

The bits that need cleaned are the wires, they're inside the MAF housing. You'll need to take the MAF housing out of the vehicle and then you'll see the two wires, very thin and short. Give a wipe with a Q-Tip dipped in alcohol (be VERY GENTLE here!) and you'll see the dirt coming off onto the Q-Tip!

ooops...

I thought you guys were talking about the ELECTRICAL contacts !!!!



I am consfused now.... someone mentioned about cleaning the electrical contacts.. wasn't it ????