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

P0174

System Too Lean (Bank 2)

Same condition as P0171 but on bank 2 of a multi-bank engine (V6, V8, flat-six, etc.). When P0171 and P0174 appear together, the cause is usually a shared component such as the MAF sensor or a central vacuum leak rather than a bank-specific fault.

SystemPowertrain
Typegeneric / SAE
GroupP0
Range / number1 / 74

Possible causes

  • Central vacuum leak (intake manifold gasket, brake booster) high
  • MAF sensor contaminated high
  • Fuel pressure low (affects both banks) medium

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Rough idle, possible stalling
  • Hesitation or hard cold start
  • Power loss under load

Inspection / repair

  • Difficulty: medium
  • DIY: possible
  • Estimated cost: 50–600 €
  • Estimated time: 0.5–4 h
  • Component: intake manifold
  • Component: mass air flow sensor
  • Component: fuel pump
  • Component: fuel pressure regulator
  • 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