jimpennjr

First of all, let me state I DID USE THE SEARCH.
I am looking to find how to do a smoke test on the 2.2 to find a leak, which could be causing the P0171 code.
Any help would be great.
I'm a visual learner, so pics or videos on where to hook up would be most beneficial.
Any other info to find the problem would be greatly appreciated too.
Thanks in advance,
jimpennjr

843de

Hmmmm.....

A P0171 Lean Code(check/clean MAF sensor) wouldn't normally even call for a smoke test, that's what you'd use to track down the source of say a P0496 Code(Large Leak in Evap System).

So the obvious question, without trying to be obnoxious, is have you started by cleaning the MAF Sensor with "MAF Sensor Cleaner"? And have you made sure its connector is firmly seated, because dirty sensors and partially loose connections are the prime causes of P0171 Codes.

Once you've eliminated the MAF from the list of possible causes, then you have to consider a leaking Flex Pipe, as our own donbrew found out with his 2008. It was leaking between the upstream and downstream O2 Sensors.

Another possible cause can be low fuel pressure, I can recall an instance from earlier this year when the cause of the code was partial fuel starvation caused by a failing fuel pump.

As far as seeing anything on smoke testing an HHR, my search came up dry, there are videos on YouTube of generic smoke tests like the one below, but its usefulness is questionable in your particular situation.

jimpennjr

Thank 843de
I did clean the MAF sensor Monday night.
Fuel pressure test was done at dealership in May.
Have not heard any type of leak from flex.

Still open for things to look for.
Will crawl under car tonight if it's not raining to listen for a leak. Is there a way to see the leak?
Thanks to all

Oldblue

flex pipe leaks can show up with a carbon black soot line at the crack, from up top you may be able to reach down and feel the pressure of a leak, depending on the car the flex pipe is part of the cat and would be covered under the emissions warranty which is 8 years or 80,000 miles.

Lucky

When I had a lean code it turned out to be my fuel pump. The only symptom I had was the check engine light was on and it had a long crank time on start up. I would check fuel pressure again. A lot can happen in 6 months.

jimpennjr

No long crank time. Starts right up. Idles rough for about 30 seconds. Then runs real smooth.
When I do start the car, I turn the key to on, wait 4-5 seconds then start it up.
Keep the ideas coming.
Thanks

firemangeorge

Old school way of checking for exhaust leaks:
While you're under there listening, have a helper plug the tailpipe with a rag for a few seconds. (make sure the helper wears gloves)
The exhaust will try to find another exit, which should be the leak area if you have one.

donbrew

Don't do that! 1400 degrees F really hurts. I know

Oldblue

I forgot and assumed gloves would be a given, sorry about that