Depending on what year, make and model vehicle you are driving, the PCM code P0174 could mean anything from lean cylinders, which is caused by numerous factors, including bad coils, plugs, wires or fuel injectors, or even a MAF (mass air flow) sensor failure. You must scan the vehicle with a code scanner, which is available at most auto parts stores, to unravel the code. The code scanner is a worthy investment and is not overly expensive. You can use it any time your vehicle turns the check engine light on.
Instructions
- 1
Plug the code scanner into the data link port, located under the driver's side dash, just to the left of the steering column, on most vehicles. Turn the key to the "On" position.
2Press the "Read" button on the scanner. Write down the codes, then compare them with the code sheet that comes with the scanner. The code sheet will tell you what P0174 means for your vehicle. Turn the key to the "Off" position and unplug the scanner. Repair the problem as required by the scanner.
3Plug the scanner into the data link port. Turn the key to the "On" position. Press the "Erase" button to erase the code from the computer's memory. Turn the key to the "Off" position and unplug the scanner. Test drive the vehicle for at least 10 minutes to ensure the check engine light stays off.
