P0172 Saturn Code - Fuel Trim System Rich Bank 1
Quick Answer
The Engine Control Module (ECM) controls a Closed Loop air/fuel metering system to provide the best possible combination of drivability, fuel economy, and emission control. Common causes include Dirty or Faulty Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor, Intake Air Leaks, Exhaust Gas Leaks. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
- What it means
- P0172 Saturn indicates Fuel Trim System Rich Bank 1.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Dirty or Faulty Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor, Intake Air Leaks, Exhaust Gas Leaks.
- Severity
- High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
- Can I drive?
- Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
Code P0172 Saturn Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0172 Saturn?
- Dirty or Faulty Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor
- Intake Air Leaks
- Exhaust Gas Leaks
- Fuel Contamination
- Faulty or Leaking Fuel Injectors
- Faulty Front Heated Oxygen Sensor
- Ignition Misfiring
- Incorrect Fuel Pressure
- Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) Hose Leaks
How to Fix the DTC P0172 Saturn?
Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.
Code Tech Notes
Click Here to Learn What is Bank 1 and Bank 2
There are Factory Service Bulletins for the following Saturn models:
2000-2008 Saturn All Models
2000-2008 Saturn Factory Service Bulletin OBDII Code P0172
2000 Saturn L-Series
2001 Saturn L-Series
2002 Saturn L-Series
2003 Saturn L-Series
2000-2003 Saturn L-Series Factory Service Bulletin OBDII Code P0172
What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?
Labor: 1.0
To diagnose the P0172 Saturn code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.
Need more information about the P0172 Saturn code?
Need more information on how to fix the P0172 Saturn code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals
Need Help with the Code?
Get the P0172 Saturn code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area
Frequently Asked Questions about P0172 Saturn Code
1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0172 on a Saturn, indicating a rich fuel trim system on bank 1?
- Common symptoms include decreased fuel efficiency, black smoke from the exhaust, rough idling, and a noticeable gasoline odor.
2. What are the possible causes of the OBDII code P0172 on a Saturn?
- Causes may include a faulty oxygen sensor, a clogged fuel injector, a vacuum leak, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor, or a problem with the fuel pressure regulator.
3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0172 on a Saturn?
- Diagnosis typically involves using an OBDII scanner to read the code, checking for any other related trouble codes, inspecting the oxygen sensor readings, examining the fuel trims, and conducting a visual inspection of the engine components.
4. Is it safe to continue driving with the OBDII code P0172 on a Saturn?
- It is not recommended to drive with a rich fuel trim condition, as it can lead to poor engine performance, increased emissions, and potential damage to the catalytic converter. It is best to address the issue promptly.
5. How can I repair the OBDII code P0172 on a Saturn?
- Repair steps may include replacing the oxygen sensor, cleaning or replacing the fuel injectors, fixing any vacuum leaks, inspecting and cleaning the mass airflow sensor, and checking and adjusting the fuel pressure regulator.
6. Can a dirty air filter cause the OBDII code P0172 on a Saturn?
- Yes, a dirty air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, leading to a rich fuel mixture and triggering the P0172 trouble code. It is advisable to regularly replace the air filter as part of routine maintenance.
7. Will a bad catalytic converter trigger the OBDII code P0172 on a Saturn?
- A failing catalytic converter can cause improper exhaust gas conversion, affecting the oxygen sensor readings and potentially leading to a rich fuel trim condition, which may trigger the P0172 code.
8. Can using low-quality fuel contribute to the OBDII code P0172 on a Saturn?
- Yes, using low-quality fuel can impact combustion efficiency, leading to a rich fuel mixture and triggering the P0172 trouble code. It is recommended to use high-quality fuel to prevent such issues.
9. How can I prevent the OBDII code P0172 from reoccurring on my Saturn?
- To prevent the recurrence of the P0172 code, maintain regular vehicle maintenance, use high-quality fuel, address any engine performance issues promptly, and ensure proper functioning of sensors and components related to the fuel system.
10. Is it necessary to reset the OBDII code P0172 after making repairs on a Saturn?
- It is recommended to clear the trouble codes using an OBDII scanner after making necessary repairs to reset the system and ensure that the P0172 code does not reappear.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P0172 Saturn OBDII Code
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Hello, I have a 2002 Saturn SC1, 264000 km and getting the P0172. Changed the EGR, tried another MAP sensor, ENgine Idle and throttle position sensors, change the coil and wires and 3 of the 4 plugs. Still got the code. Car idles rough, and hisitates when driving at low rpm and again at higher rpm when trying to push it. I took the injectors out and sprayed them with cleaner and put them back in. No luck. Do you have any suggestions?
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You may have a clogged fuel injector. Please see service bulletin link under "Tech Notes" above.
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99 saturn sl2 changed plugs wires fuel filter ects thermostat ,cat conv. coil pack
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I have 99 sl2 that i have changed valve seals, replaced cat conv, resonator ,cleaned exhaust manifold and intake. Changed two injectors and all spark plugs. And am still getting a p0172 what else should i do.
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Hi i have a 2000 saturn sl2 im getting p0172 code. i have replace coils, ignition coils spark plugs, 02 sensor front, temperatures sensors coolant and air, and fuel injectors had muffler shop check my exhaust, egr replace and throttle body sensor replaced. i notice after replacing fuel injectors. Would you have any suggestions?
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We have just updated the "Tech Notes" and added a second bulletin for that problem. Please check bulletin for further diagnosis.
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