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2000 Ford Windstar P0172 Code: Diagnosis and Solutions with P0153 and P1132 Codes

Model: 2000 Windstar Fault Code: P0172 Posted: 2008-01-11 08:49

Hi everyone, I'm currently troubleshooting a 2000 Ford Windstar that has been displaying the P0172 code (System Too Rich Bank 2) along with intermittent P0153 and P1132 codes. The P0172 code is the most persistent. I've already replaced the MAF sensor, DPFE, TPS, and intake air control (IAC) valve—last updated six months ago—and have confirmed that fuel pressure regulation works properly using a hand vacuum pump. The vehicle idles roughly at idle speed and exhibits poor acceleration response; it often backfires during startup or when accelerating gently. However, once the throttle is fully pressed, performance improves significantly. I notice a slight surge around 2000 RPM (~40 mph) on mild uphill inclines, but no visible vacuum leaks have been detected at intake gaskets or hoses. The engine does not show signs of fuel or air leaks that would typically cause lean conditions—so I'm puzzled by the rich code. I've also verified fuel pressure and found it within Haynes manual specifications. Despite these efforts, the issue persists. Any insights into potential root causes for a P0172 code in this model? Thanks in advance for your help!

Related fault codes
P0172
Comments (10)
Anonymous 2008-01-11 17:42

Intake gaskets can still leak even without showing lean codes—don't rule them out. Check the oxygen sensor readings under lean conditions and verify fuel pressure and bleed-off time. Surging is often a strong indicator of a vacuum leak.

Anonymous 2008-01-11 20:51

Thanks for the tip! Additional detail: the surging only appears after the engine warms up during initial startup. Also, there was a typo in the original post—P1132 should be P1131.

Anonymous 2008-01-13 11:49

I've inspected all vacuum hoses and intake gaskets thoroughly with no visible leaks. Fuel pressure is confirmed within Haynes specifications. Still, the issue remains unresolved—very puzzling.

Anonymous 2008-01-14 09:17

The P0153 and P1131 codes suggest faulty upstream oxygen sensors on Bank 1 and Bank 2. Before replacing sensors, ensure all wiring connections have proper voltage and ground. A thorough inspection of the harness is recommended.

Anonymous 2008-01-26 18:34

I replaced both upper and lower intake gaskets, rechecked TPS, DPFE, MAF, and O2 sensors, and also changed the fuel filter. The car runs noticeably smoother now but still shows a P1132 code.

Anonymous 2008-01-27 09:47

The vehicle is now showing P0153 and P1132 codes. Power remains weak—backfiring occurs occasionally, only when the throttle isn't fully pressed. Idle roughness has improved significantly, though.

Anonymous 2008-01-30 12:28

How were the oxygen sensors tested? Using a voltmeter? Can your O2 sensor scanner graph readings for both upstream sensors on each bank? This would help identify erratic behavior more accurately.

Anonymous 2008-01-30 21:20

Yes, I used a voltmeter to test the oxygen sensors. I'll soon get access to an O2 sensor graphing scanner—it will take about two days. My current scanner lacks this capability. Thanks for the suggestion!

Anonymous 2008-03-09 10:43

The issue continues. After testing, one of the front bank oxygen sensors was found to be reading erratically. I replaced both front sensors and swapped the rear ones to test. Fuel pump and filter were also replaced. The car still shows a P1132 code and runs rough at low speeds in gear—this only occurs periodically. After driving for 3–4 weeks (including multiple fill-ups), the P1132 code disappeared on its own over the last 10 days without reset, and the rough idle stopped. A new code, P0133, has just appeared. Thanks for your help!

Anonymous 2008-03-09 15:47

What brand of oxygen sensor did you use? The P1132 code relates to a front bank O2 sensor, yet the sensors were replaced—could there be an incompatibility or installation issue?