mk4 golf 1.6s 16v 2001

I have been getting and error code (forgot the code at work) that says
engine running too lean on bank 1.

What exactly is the problem ?

From googling I was told its a knackered lambda or a knackered maf ? ... or
am I barking up the wrong tree.

The mechanic said just whip out the lambda and clean it with brake cleaner ?
is that a good idea or ...

Advice welcomed as always

"munki" <none (AT) none (DOT) com> wrote

Probably better to clean it in an ultrasonic cleaner like the four I bought
in Aldi a few years ago for £15 each. I figured at that price it'd be handy
to have a few spares for gifts to friends and in case one went wrong. Just
the job for sorting out blocked injectors, dirty jewellery etc. I'm about to
do my own lambda sensor before the next MOT is due so if you want I'll do
yours too and post it back.
--
Dave Baker

munki wrote:
computer I'd get it rescanned with one of those as they may reveal more
info thana generic OBD-II scanner. If you ask on one of the VAG forums
someone will usually do it for you for a pint or two.

http://www.ross-tech.com/vag-com/dtc-comparison.html

Have a look here for suggested causes:

http://wiki.ross-tech.com/index.php/16555/P0171/000369

The best way to test a MAF is with VCDS, but a quick and dirty check is
to unplug it. The car should run much worse.

http://www.ross-tech.net/vag-com/advertising/DiagnosingA_MAF_TechTip.pdf

"Chris Bartram" <news (AT) delete-me (DOT) piglet-net.net> wrote

It was scanned with a sealey VAG scanner I bought..

Thanks for the links. I'm going to give them a good read now.

Also been suggested it could be a VAC leak, and to open the bonet and have
a listen for hissing sounds. First job of the morning

Then see where the MAF is located on the 1.6 16v 01 .. searches for haynes.

"Dave Baker" <Null (AT) null (DOT) com> wrote

Ahh, that does sound a better idea and less crude. That is a very generous
offer I may take you up on and will drop a few extra pennies in for a few
pints *thumbs up*

I shall have a look for VAC leaks first and then remove the lambda

"Chris Bartram" <news (AT) delete-me (DOT) piglet-net.net> wrote

Forgot to mention a few months back a warning light came up on the dash
engine management one, and I scanned it there and then ... well parked first
lol ... and it gave a code out for a faulty lambda sensor. I erased it
forgetting which sensor it was and waited to see if it came back which it
didn't so assumed as was ok. Now within the last 12 months I changed the
front pre cat lambda as it was faulty so I can only guess it was the other
one, but possibly it could be the new one gone again ? (I do use mainly
supermarket fuel, which I know is not the best grade)

But as I say no warning lights for the lambda came back. Just this new one
about the engine running lean. Also worth mentioning I think is a slightly
eggy stink but not noticeable now, or maybe I have gotten used to it. Well I
do usesually drop the windows, perhaps not in this heavy rain were getting
down south.

Thats about as much detailed information as I have to help.

On Thu, 03 Sep 2009 21:58:44 +0100, munki <none (AT) none (DOT) com> wrote:

Obviously you woulkdn't search for "Erwin Golf" or "bentley golf manual"
Torrent as that would be bad.

"munki" <none (AT) none (DOT) com> wrote

No pennies needed. Someone on Usenet I've never met helped me out with some
ram to upgrade my old pc and to balance my karma I need to do a favour for
someone in return.
--
Dave Baker

munki wrote:
egg smell is often attributed to a dying cat