← Back to list

2000 Mitsubishi Montero 3.0L - Check Engine Light, Loss of Power, Backfiring with P0170 Fault Code

Model: 2000 Mitsubishi Montero 3.0 Fault Code: P0170 Posted: 2011-07-06 19:09

My 2000 Mitsubishi Montero 3.0L is coming in with a persistent check engine light, significant loss of power, and backfiring during acceleration. After scanning the vehicle, I received a P0170 code indicating a rich fuel condition on bank 2. I performed a full tune-up including spark plugs, wires, fuel filter replacement, and a fuel injection service (BG's) as requested by the customer. All sensors—MAF, O2 sensors, EGR, barometric pressure, etc.—are reading within normal parameters. I conducted an extensive vacuum leak check and replaced the plenum gasket twice; all connections are secure. The fuel pressure regulator is functioning properly. The catalytic converter appears red-hot, which suggests excessive fuel delivery from injectors on bank 2. My main question: Could this be a faulty engine control module (ECM) or computer issue? All injectors have been tested and are working correctly.

Related fault codes
P0170
Comments (4)
Anonymous 2011-07-07 05:24

It's unlikely the issue is with the ECU. If the O2 sensor on bank 2 is unplugged, how would the engine run at all? Can you share the fuel trim values at idle and 2500 RPM? Have you verified both fuel pressure and flow?

Anonymous 2011-07-11 20:02

Jeff — check this out. The root cause was a misfire due to an incorrect firing order. AllData shows (6-3-5-2-4-1), but the plenum's markings were also wrong, indicating a misfiring condition. However, I never saw a P0300 code, which would normally indicate that the ECU detected a misfire and disabled fuel injection to those cylinders to protect the catalytic converter. The correct firing order for this vehicle is (5-2-4-1-6-3).

Anonymous 2011-07-12 05:05

Hmm? Could it be that some engine or intake components were swapped in the past, leading to these irregular readings?

Anonymous 2011-07-12 19:34

To my knowledge, neither the engine nor the intake has been replaced. The P0170 code has not returned, and the vehicle now runs smoothly.