Code P2096?

Tiny
VKAPUR88
  • MEMBER
  • 2014 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 150,000 MILES
My car failed inspection for error code P2096. I had the exhaust repaired, muffler changed, no vacuum leaks, O2 sensors replaced (with Mitsubishi parts), and threw Cataclean in there. Check engine light turns off when I fill up on gas, back on at half tank. Code is always stored in the permanent memory. Acceleration has been sluggish, but the car runs well. 3 mechanics told me catalytic converter looks fine and exhaust reading in range. What else could be causing this? I'm about ready to trade my car in it's so frustrating.
Wednesday, September 27th, 2023 AT 7:55 PM

2 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,068 POSTS
Hi,

I'm not sure which engine you have. So, I'm looking at information related to a 2.4L.

As far as the code is concerned, it indicates a lean fuel mixture. Have you checked fuel pressure when the fuel level is below 1/2 tank? Also, how did you check for a vacuum leak? Here is a link that explains how it's done. Let me know if this is what was performed.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-an-engine-vacuum-gauge

Also, if you haven't checked fuel pressure, I recommend doing it. Here is a link that explains how it's done:

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

Note: A lean fuel mixture code isn't indicative of a failing oxygen sensor. Usually, it is a vacuum leak or low fuel pressure. I attached the manufacturer's fuel pressure specifications below for you.

One other thought. If you have access to a live data scan tool, let me know what the short-term fuel trims are. Also, confirm the engine size for me.

Take care,

Joe

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Wednesday, September 27th, 2023 AT 9:30 PM
Tiny
VKAPUR88
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I'm following up. Thank you for replying! I intended to change the fuel pressure regulator. Got the air filter done + a missing clip on the filter box, serpentine belt, battery replaced. Check engine light went away after that, so one of them must have been causing the issue. Thanks again!
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Monday, October 23rd, 2023 AT 7:30 PM

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