P0171 on Your 2023 Dodge Charger
A P0171 code on your 2023 Dodge Charger indicates the PCM has detected a lean air-fuel mixture on Bank 1. The 2023 Charger was the final model year for the internal combustion lineup and offered the 3.6L Pentastar V6, 5.7L HEMI V8, 6.4L HEMI V8, and the supercharged 6.2L HEMI. Bank 1 is the driver side on the Pentastar V6 and the passenger side on the HEMI V8s. Running lean means excess air or insufficient fuel in the mixture.
As the last year of the legendary HEMI Charger, keeping it running properly is especially important. Here is everything you need to know about P0171.
Symptoms
- Check engine light illuminated
- Rough or inconsistent idle
- Hesitation or stumble during acceleration
- Decreased fuel mileage
- Possible misfires under light load
- Engine may feel slightly down on power
Common Causes
- Vacuum Leak (35% likelihood) - The Pentastar V6 and HEMI V8 intake manifolds and associated vacuum lines can develop leaks. PCV system components and brake booster hoses are frequent culprits.
- MAF Sensor Contamination (25% likelihood) - Oil from aftermarket air filters or general debris accumulation can coat the MAF element and cause lean fueling.
- Fuel Delivery Problem (25% likelihood) - A weakening fuel pump, clogged fuel filter, or carbon-fouled injectors can reduce fuel supply below the PCM's target.
- Exhaust Manifold Leak (15% likelihood) - HEMI exhaust manifold bolt loosening is a persistent pattern that can cause false lean readings at the Bank 1 O2 sensor.
Diagnostic Steps
- Scan for all codes. Note companion codes like P0174, misfires, or O2 sensor faults.
- Monitor fuel trims. LTFT above +10% on Bank 1 confirms lean. Idle-only lean suggests vacuum leak; all-RPM lean suggests MAF or fuel issue.
- Inspect intake and vacuum system. Check hoses, gaskets, PCV valve, and brake booster line.
- Smoke test. Pressurize the intake with smoke to find hidden leaks.
- Clean MAF sensor. Use dedicated MAF cleaner.
- Test fuel pressure. Verify readings match factory specs for your engine.
Repair Costs
- Vacuum leak repair: $75 - $350.
- MAF sensor service: $15 - $280.
- Fuel pump replacement: $400 - $850.
- Exhaust manifold repair: $250 - $700.
Warranty Consideration
Your 2023 Charger may still be under Stellantis's 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty depending on purchase date and mileage. The powertrain warranty extends to 5 years/60,000 miles. Check your coverage and visit an authorized Dodge dealer if applicable.
Prevention Tips
- Use quality dry air filters
- Fill up with Top Tier gasoline
- Inspect vacuum hoses and exhaust manifold bolts regularly
- Do not ignore check engine lights
- Keep maintenance records for warranty and resale value