OBD-II reference

All 9.533 generic OBD-II codes, explained in detail.

Causes, inspection steps and sources — a comprehensive DIY archive. Created and maintained with love for the detail. Good luck and have fun!

Powertrain generic / SAE

P0172

System Too Rich (Bank 1)

Long-term fuel trim on bank 1 is at the lower limit — the ECU is removing fuel from baseline but mixture remains too rich. Indicates excess fuel delivery, restricted air flow, or a faulty oxygen sensor reporting falsely lean.

SystemPowertrain
Typegeneric / SAE
GroupP0
Range / number1 / 72

Possible causes

  • Fuel pressure regulator stuck closed high
  • Leaking fuel injector medium
  • Severely blocked air filter medium
  • Oxygen sensor reporting incorrectly low

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Increased fuel consumption
  • Black smoke from exhaust on acceleration
  • Smell of unburned fuel, fouled spark plugs

Inspection / repair

  • Difficulty: medium
  • DIY: possible
  • Estimated cost: 50–600 €
  • Estimated time: 0.5–4 h
  • Component: fuel pressure regulator
  • Component: fuel injector
  • Component: air filter
  • Component: oxygen sensor upstream
  • Component: mass air flow sensor
  • MIL / check engine light
  • emissions-relevant
  • drive cycle required

Sources

References

How to read OBD-II codes

The first letter names the vehicle system, the second digit distinguishes generic from manufacturer-specific, the remaining digits group fault area and number.

PPowertrain: engine, transmission, emissions
BBody: chassis trim, comfort, interior
CChassis: suspension, brakes, steering
UNetwork: CAN, control modules, communication