P0171 on GMC TERRAIN — System Too Lean Bank 1

Q: "What does P0171 mean on a GMC TERRAIN?"

"P0171 indicates: System Too Lean Bank 1. This is a fuel and air metering code. 4 GMC TERRAIN owners have reported this to NHTSA."

Q: "What are the most common causes of P0171 on GMC TERRAIN?"

"Based on 4 NHTSA reports, the most commonly cited components are: Unknown Or Other,Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System, Electrical System,Engine, Power Train,Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System. These percentages are based on the component field in owner complaints."

Q: "Is P0171 serious on my GMC TERRAIN?"

"Of 4 NHTSA reports for this code on GMC TERRAIN, none involved a crash or fire. However, any diagnostic code should be evaluated by a qualified mechanic."

Q: "What should I do if my GMC TERRAIN shows P0171?"

"1) Check for recalls on your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 2) Get a professional diagnosis — a code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. 3) Get 2-3 repair estimates to compare."

What P0171 Means on Your GMC TERRAIN

P0171 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: System Too Lean Bank 1. This code relates to the fuel and air metering system. The vehicle's computer detected a condition outside normal operating parameters and stored this code.

4 GMC TERRAIN owners have reported this issue to NHTSA across model years 2013-2022. Most reports come from the 2013, 2018 model years.

Real GMC TERRAIN Owner Reports

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

"I've been having same issues Occurring since I Signed my purchase agreement. The constant rattle at about 1500 RPM, The oil leaves At such a rapid rate That I have to monitor it every day As to make sure the level doesn't go too low."

— 2013 GMC TERRAIN owner · UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM · Filed 09/24/2022

"Tl* the contact owns a 2013 gmc terrain. the contact stated that the service engine indicator illuminated and an abnormal noise was heard. in addition, the instrument panel shorted out due to an electrical failure, which also caused all the gauges and warning indicators not to function."

— 2013 GMC TERRAIN owner · ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE · Filed 06/02/2014

"My check engine light comes on intermittently, since March 2024, after having Cabin & Engine air filters replaced. Each time, I’m told it is code P0171. This has happened too many times for my comfort. Usually, it happens around the time my gas gets below 1/2 tank or after I fill up my gas tank."

— 2018 GMC TERRAIN owner · POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM · Filed 03/14/2024

"My check engine light came on and I got it hooked up to get the code of P0171 - Upon checking it was different things like O2 sensor the Mass Airflow sensor, fuel pump issue etc."

— 2022 GMC TERRAIN owner · ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM · Filed 10/09/2024

All reports filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.

📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year

2

'13

1

'18

1

'22

Common Causes on GMC TERRAIN

Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.

UNKNOWN or OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM 25%

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE 25%

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM 25%

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM 25%

What To Do Next

1
Check for recalls on YOUR VIN
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If your vehicle is covered, repairs are free.
2
Get a proper diagnosis
A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.
3
Compare repair quotes
Get 2–3 quotes. Dealer vs. independent shop prices often differ 30–50% for the same repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does P0171 mean on a GMC TERRAIN? ▾

P0171 indicates: System Too Lean Bank 1. This is a fuel and air metering code. 4 GMC TERRAIN owners have reported this to NHTSA.

What are the most common causes of P0171 on GMC TERRAIN? ▾

Based on 4 NHTSA reports, the most commonly cited components are: Unknown Or Other,Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System, Electrical System,Engine, Power Train,Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System. These percentages are based on the component field in owner complaints.

Is P0171 serious on my GMC TERRAIN? ▾

Of 4 NHTSA reports for this code on GMC TERRAIN, none involved a crash or fire. However, any diagnostic code should be evaluated by a qualified mechanic.

What should I do if my GMC TERRAIN shows P0171? ▾

1) Check for recalls on your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 2) Get a professional diagnosis — a code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. 3) Get 2-3 repair estimates to compare.