Hi everyone,

My girlfriend has a 2003 Mrk IV GTI 1.8T, and she is throwin a few codes. I was wondering if anyone on here could let me know what they are?

P0171: System Too lean (bank 1)?
P2181: ?
P3081: ?

If someone could help me on here it would be great. I Don't want to make a name on some VW thread just for this.

Thanks again

~Buddy

 

Code Description

P0171 Fuel Trim, Bank1 System Too Lean

P2181 Engine Cooling performance - check coolant sensor & coolant regulator

P3081 Engine Temp too low - engine temp is below 122 degrees after it has had time to warm up

 

nevermind....

 

o2 sensor is on it's way out. And coolant temp sensor either has a short or needs replacing. Not too hard to replace temp sensor.

 

thanks everyone

 

Hi guys, I'm the GF.

Any ideas on what could be causing the system to be too lean? or could this be a false positive and my filters just need cleaning?

Why do you say the O2 sensor is bad?

Sorry. Bit of a noob with all of this still.

Thanks again!

 

For the lean fault, you should probably check all the vacuum lines before throwing an 02 sensor at it. If you need an 02 sensor, you would more than likely get a specific fault for it.

For the cooling system performance fault, you will need either a coolant temp sensor or a thermostat. If the car is taking too long to warm up, my money would be on the thermostat hanging open. If the ECT sensor is at fault, be sure to check the pins going into the sensor. Some model VW's (not sure if yours is one of them) got corrosion on said pins.

 

she does have a boost leak I've been meaning to fix, I just hate workin on DUBS lol

 

Actually ditch the o2 sensor idea. P0171 is maf related. I went through about 4 mafs when I owned my 1.8T. Try cleaning it first, then checking for leaks. Look for a leak pcv valve.

As mentioned boost leak test...if still popping up then replace maf.

 

def fond 2 MASSIVE leaks tonight. thanks again for everyone's help