So, I first changed the PCV valve and the car drove fine for about 2 weeks before CEL P0171 returned. Avg mpg was as good as 25-26 mpg for the most part and as low as 22 mpg. Depending on how I drive (city/hwy), CEL P0171 appeared for a few car starts and then self-cleared for a few days before repeating itself.
One month later, I was finally able to change out the purge hose that was cut at one of the ends. I also changed both inlet and outlet coolant lines to the new Throttle Body as well. I smoke tested airflow tube post-maf sensor [again] and did not see smoke escaping any vacuum lines. The only suspect areas I found were a few points highlighted on the air flow tube between MAF and TB (see image). Hard to say if the airflow tube and clamps are getting old.
Also, I ran the scan tool and saw much different behavior. While idling, the Short trim was 46.9% flat and O2 downstream 0.065 V flat. Sometimes when radiator fan toggles on/off, the O2 downstream toggles between 0.045 V and 0.7V while Short trim stays 46.9% flat. The Short trim is lower and much closer to 15% while driving but after stopping the short trim ramps back up to near 46.9% Tightening the clamps at both ends of airflow tube didn't seem to make a difference.
I will be checking some areas with carb cleaner shortly.
Image (Click to make bigger)
Sunday, October 27th, 2024 AT 1:25 PM