Check Engine Light LEAN

[suavetherapy]

I have a CEL and it is p0171. I see a lot of other people who have this but I have never seen a solution posted so if anyone has had this code and fixed the problem please tell me where the fault occured and how to fix it. Thank you.

[carz1]

The P0171 code is for a 'Fuel Injection System Lean.' You're also probably noticing some hesitation in accelerating and a decrease in power. The problem is in the MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor. It's a $5 fix that will save you $500 from the dealership. The MAF sensor is probably dirty and just needs to be cleaned. With a dirty sensor, the rush of air coming into the engine doesn't register and causes a lean stumble.

All your need is a philips screwdriver and a $5 can of electric parts cleaner. From the repair manual from the Prizm, you will notice the MAF sensor is located in the air filter housing. Just unscrew the two screws to the MAF sensor, unlink the power and you can see just how dirty the sensor is. Now that the sensor is disconected, DON'T TOUCH THE MAF SENSOR WIRES INSIDE! The sensor is very small and delicate. With the electric parts cleaner, just spray and let the dirt and grime disolve. I also found compressed air to be handy to help release the dirt after using the electric parts cleaner.

Once the part is clean, connect the power and screw in the sensor. You will have better power and acceleration, as well as the check engine light ready for reset. Just reset the ECU or delete the code from the ECU.

[mymomsprizm]

Please help!
this is exactly whats going on with my moms 2001 prizm (62,500 milage)
she took it to a mech. and he cleaned the maf sensor, (said it was filthy dirty) so he shined it up . . .
After that she drove it around for about 50 or 60 miles then the light came back on, saying its runnung rich/lean in another cyl,
the car also studders really bad when she firsts accelerates from a stop.
Well now she took it to another mech cause the other one had her car for a month, well the guy is telling my mom she needs to replace all for injectors,
quote was for about 900 something dollars.
Anyone else ahve this problem after cleaning the sensor???
please help, I appreciate it very much!

Thankx,