What Does P0172 Mean on Your 2022 Acura Integra?
A P0172 code on your 2022 Acura Integra tells you that the engine control module has detected a rich air-fuel mixture. The 2022 Integra is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower, paired with either a CVT or a 6-speed manual transmission. Since this is an inline-4, there is only one cylinder bank, so P0172 affects the entire engine.
Running rich means the engine is getting more fuel than the optimal 14.7:1 air-fuel ratio requires. This hurts fuel economy, increases emissions, and can cause long-term damage to components like the catalytic converter.
Symptoms You May Notice
- Check engine light illuminated on the dash
- Fuel economy dropping below the normal 30/37 mpg (CVT) rating
- Rough or uneven idle
- Black or dark exhaust smoke
- Fuel smell from the exhaust area
- Slight hesitation during acceleration
- Engine running rougher than usual, especially when cold
Common Causes of P0172 on the 2022 Acura Integra
- Dirty MAF Sensor - The 1.5T engine's mass airflow sensor sits in the intake tract before the turbo. Oil mist and debris can contaminate it, causing it to underreport airflow. This is the number one cause on this engine.
- Boost Leak in the Intake System - The turbo pressurizes the intake air. Any leak in the charge pipes, intercooler hoses, or connections means less air reaches the engine than the ECM expects.
- Faulty or Leaking Fuel Injector - The 1.5T uses port and direct injection. A leaking injector on either system can add excess fuel.
- Worn Upstream O2 Sensor - A degraded oxygen sensor can misread exhaust gases and cause the ECM to add unnecessary fuel.
How to Diagnose P0172
- Scan for all codes - Check for boost-related, MAF, O2, or misfire codes alongside P0172.
- Review fuel trim data - Negative long-term fuel trim values beyond -10% confirm the rich running condition.
- Inspect the MAF sensor - Remove it and look for contamination. Clean with dedicated MAF cleaner spray.
- Check the boost system - Perform a smoke test or boost leak test to identify any pressurized air leaks in the intake tract.
- Test O2 sensor response - Monitor the upstream sensor for slow switching or a stuck reading.
- Check fuel injectors - Test both the port and direct injection systems for proper flow and sealing.
Repair Options and Cost Breakdown
- MAF Sensor Cleaning - $12-$25 for spray cleaner. A 10-minute DIY job.
- MAF Sensor Replacement - $120-$280 parts and labor.
- Boost Hose or Clamp Repair - $60-$300 depending on the component.
- Fuel Injector Replacement - $250-$550 per injector with labor.
- O2 Sensor Replacement - $150-$320 parts and labor.
Most P0172 repairs on the Integra cost between $100 and $350. The Integra is positioned as an affordable luxury car, so repair costs are generally lower than larger Acura models.
Can You DIY This Repair?
The Integra's engine bay is relatively accessible. Cleaning the MAF sensor is an easy 10-minute job. Checking boost hose connections for tightness is also straightforward. The 1.5T engine is based on Honda's well-known platform, so aftermarket support and guides are plentiful. Fuel injector work is more involved and best handled by a professional.
Prevention Tips
- Replace the engine air filter every 15,000 miles to keep the MAF sensor clean
- Use quality 87+ octane fuel from reputable stations
- Add fuel system cleaner every 10,000 miles
- Check turbo hose connections during routine maintenance
- Do not delay check engine light diagnosis to protect your catalytic converter