Ford code
P0174: on a Ford
How much to fix P0174 on a Ford? Typically $90 to $460 for vacuum leak repair, the most common fix. This is an estimate, not a quote.
P0174 is the bank 2 version of the lean code. When only bank 2 runs lean, a leak or a sensor on that side is the first suspect, not the whole engine.
General meaning of P0174: On the engine bank that does not hold cylinder 1, the oxygen sensor keeps reporting too much air for the fuel being sent. The computer is already adding as much fuel as it is allowed to and still cannot fix the mix, so it sets this code and the check-engine light. See the full P0174 page.
Models to know about
| Model | Years | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| F-150 | 2011 to 2020 | EcoBoost trucks have a separate charge pipe on each side. |
| Explorer | 2011 to 2019 | 3.5 and 3.7 V6. |
| Edge | 2011 to 2018 | Same engines. |
| Expedition | 2007 to 2020 | V8 and EcoBoost. |
Common causes on a Ford
- Boost leak on one side of an EcoBoost.
- Intake manifold gasket leaking at one bank.
- Bank 2 sensor reading off.
- Fuel injector clogged on that bank.
NHTSA's public complaint file shows how owners describe this kind of trouble: the 2014 Ford Explorer has 1,684 complaints on file, and 42 of them use wording like check engine, lean, P0174, hesitat. Complaints are owner reports, not proof of a cause.
Check this first
- Compare trims on both banks. If only bank 2 is lean, look local.
- Check clamps and couplers on that side.
- Look for oil on that side's intake tubing.
Wide range: this job varies a lot. Itemize your quote for a better answer.
How this range is built
| Part of the job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts | $5 | $60 |
| Labor: 0.8 to 2.5 hours × $110 to $150 an hour | $88 | $375 |
| Fees: shop supplies, disposal, diagnostics | $0 | $25 |
| Total, rounded | $90 | $460 |
The hourly rate is the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 average pay for this trade in the US, $27.13 an hour, times 4 to 5.5 to cover what a shop bills (overhead, tools, insurance, profit). Parts are a band from budget aftermarket to the manufacturer part. Full method.
Not a repair shop, estimates only. Typical range, estimate. Not a quote. Your car, parts and shop change the number.
Boost pipes and couplers are inexpensive. Injectors are the costlier path and should come after a leak test.
Other repairs that may be involved
| Repair | Typical range, US |
|---|---|
| Vacuum leak repair | $90 to $460 |
| Turbo boost leak repair | $140 to $660 |
| Fuel injector replacement (one injector) | $170 to $820 |
Questions to ask the shop
- Are both banks lean or only one?
- Did you test boost?
- Was a smoke test done?
Got a quote already? Check it against the range. Wondering if a recall touches this problem? See Ford recalls by model or check a VIN.
P0174 on a Ford: questions
Is P0174 worse than P0171?
Not worse. It tells you which side is lean.
Can I drive?
Short term yes, but fix it soon.
How much does it cost to fix P0174 on a Ford?
The most common fix, vacuum leak repair, has a typical range of $90 to $460 across the US. That is an estimate built from parts prices and local labor wages, not a quote. Your model, engine and shop move it.
Sources
Written from public NHTSA data, owner-reported patterns and general repair knowledge, in our own words. Model lists are examples, not a full list, and patterns are not a diagnosis. Prices updated October 2026. Not a repair shop, estimates only.