What causes the P2187 idle condition fuel system too lean?
2 Answers
P2187 idle condition fuel system too lean is generally caused by air leakage in the intake system. Below is relevant information about P2187 idle condition fuel system too lean: The fault range involves fuel, air or emission control. An air-fuel ratio too rich means excessive fuel delivery, while too lean indicates insufficient fuel delivery. System too lean means the fuel quantity (relative to intake air) is low. Possible causes include air leakage after the mass air flow (MAF) sensor, PCV system leakage, faulty oxygen sensor, exhaust leakage near oxygen sensor, EGR leakage, excessively dirty MAF sensor, clogged fuel injectors, insufficient fuel supply from fuel pump, etc.
I've repaired many cars before, and the P2187 code often occurs due to leaks in the intake system, such as cracked vacuum hoses or loose connections. At idle, extra air enters the engine undetected by the sensors, causing the ECU to mistakenly think the mixture is too lean. Additionally, it could be insufficient fuel supply, like a weak fuel pump or slightly clogged injectors, leading to reduced fuel delivery. It's also essential to check if the oxygen sensor is dirty or faulty, as inaccurate readings can affect injection control. I've noticed this issue often comes with engine shaking or increased fuel consumption. I recommend not delaying repairs—you can do a preliminary check on the vacuum hoses yourself, but for a thorough fix, it's best to visit a professional shop for comprehensive testing to avoid bigger problems.