Fixing code P0171?

Tiny
MERLIJNMAAS
  • MEMBER
  • 2000 TOYOTA CELICA
  • 2WD
  • MANUAL
  • 120,000 MILES
I have a P0171 (system running lean) error code, started once a month now comes up almost every day (but I also drive more often now).

I have changed the air filter.
Put additives in fuel (to maybe clean injectors).
Cleaned MAF sensor (it was really dirty, there was been a K&N air filter used in the car before, thinking some oil of that got on).

At idle my short-term fuel trim is -20/-15 and long term is normal around 0 so -5/+5

At load my short-term fuel trim is normal around 0 so -5/+5 and my long term is really bad around +30% (tested on the highway at around 65 m/h)
btw every time the engine light came on was on the highway going 60 or above.

The above results let me believe it is a fuel problem, but please correct me if I'm wrong or if you have other suggestions, I'm no mechanic.

I bought a fuel pressure gauge set to test the pressure, after some research I know how to do it and what to look for, but my main question is where do I connect the gauge to my car, I know I need a fuel pressure line or such, could you please point out where it is located? Maybe with a picture or diagram.

Many thanks!
Tuesday, August 30th, 2022 AT 2:43 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 47,643 POSTS
The fact that the MAF sensor was really dirty tells me the sensor is no good, cleaning will not help. I would do a fuel pressure test and if okay replace the MAF sensor. Here is how to do the fuel pressure test and I have a guide for you as well to help you see what you are in for doing the test:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

Fuel Pressure - 44 to 50 PSI.

Check out the diagrams. (below) Please let us know what happens.
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Tuesday, August 30th, 2022 AT 11:26 AM
Tiny
MERLIJNMAAS
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Hi Ken L,

Thanks for providing the info and pictures above, meanwhile I replaced my MAF sensor and drove about 2,000 miles, light still hasn't turned on, so I assume its fixed. I wanted to let you know and others of course for when they have the same problem.
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Monday, October 10th, 2022 AT 5:25 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 47,643 POSTS
Thanks for getting back to us. I am glad you got I fixed. Use 2CarPros anytime, we are here to help. Please tell a friend.
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Monday, October 10th, 2022 AT 11:41 AM

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