What does code P0174 mean on a Chevrolet and is it safe to drive?

P0174: System Too Lean (Bank 2). Here's what it means on your Chevrolet, what usually causes it, what repairs typically cost, and how safe it is to keep driving.

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What this code means

Same as P0171 but for bank 2. The engine is running too lean on the side that contains cylinder 2.

Common causes for your Chevrolet

  • Vacuum leaks affecting bank 2
  • Faulty MAF or O2 sensor
  • Fuel delivery issues

Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light
  • Rough idle, hesitation
  • May appear with P0171 on V6/V8 engines

Typical fixes

  • Smoke test for vacuum leaks
  • Inspect intake gaskets and hoses
  • Check fuel pressure and filter

Repair cost range

For a Chevrolet, repairs for P0174 often fall between $100 and $600, depending on the cause and whether you use OEM or aftermarket parts. Labor rates vary by location.

Known issues on Chevrolet

P0174 on GM V6/V8 engines paired with P0171 usually indicates a cross-bank vacuum leak or a MAF sensor error affecting all cylinders. On older V6 models, spider injector failures can cause symmetric lean conditions.

Most commonly affected models

Silverado V8 2007–2013Tahoe 2007–2013Impala V6 2006–2013

Is it safe to keep driving your Chevrolet with this code?

For driving-safety guidance—how far you can go, when to tow, and what's urgent—see these checklists:

Browse P0174 on your Chevrolet by model year

Year-specific guides include Chevrolet-tailored causes and repair costs.

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