P02AE Cylinder 6 – Fuel Trim at Max Limit
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Cylinder 6 Fuel Trim at Max Limit
What does that mean?
This is a generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and typically applies to all gasoline OBD-II vehicles. That may include but is not limited to vehicles from Land Rover, Mazda, Jaguar, Ford, Mini, Nissan, GM, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on year, make, model and powertrain configuration.
A stored P02AE code means that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an extremely lean condition in a specific engine cylinder, in this case it’s cylinder #6.
The PCM utilizes the fuel trim system to increase or decrease fuel delivery as required. Input signals from the oxygen sensors provide the PCM with the data required to adjust fuel trim. The PCM uses variations in fuel injector pulse width modulation to effect air/fuel ratio changes.
Short term fuel trim is calculated constantly by the PCM. It fluctuates rapidly and is one of the key factors in calculating long term fuel trim. Every vehicle has minimum and maximum fuel trim percentage parameters programmed into the PCM. The parameters for short term fuel trim are much broader than the parameter specifications for long term fuel trim.
Small variations in fuel trim, typically measured in positive or negative percentage, are normal and will not cause a code P02AE to be stored. Maximum fuel trim parameters (positive or negative) are normally in the twenty-five-percent range. Once this maximum threshold has been exceeded, a code of this type will be stored.
When the engine is functioning at optimum efficiency and there is little need to increase or decrease the amount of fuel delivered to each cylinder, fuel trim should reflect between zero and ten percent. When lean exhaust conditions are detected by the PCM, fuel must be increased and fuel trim will reflect a positive percentage. If the exhaust is too rich, the engine needs less fuel and fuel trim should reflect a negative percentage.
See also: Everything you want to know about fuel trims.
OBD-II vehicles will need to establish a pattern for long term fuel trim strategy and this will require multiple ignition cycles.
Fuel trim graphs as shown by OBD-II scan tool:
What is the severity of this DTC?
The P02AE should be classified as severe because a lean fuel condition may result in catastrophic engine damage.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P02AE trouble code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
Causes for this P02AE fuel trim code may include:
What are some P02AE troubleshooting steps?
If there are MAF or MAP related codes present, diagnose and repair those before attempting to diagnose this P02AE code.
I would begin my diagnosis with a general inspection of the engine intake manifold area. My focus would be on vacuum leaks. First, I would listen for the sound (hissing) of a vacuum leak. I would be checking all hoses and plastic lines for signs of cracking or collapse. The PCV lines are a common source of vacuum leaks. Also, check the edges of the intake for signs of gasket failure. Secondly, I would examine the fuel injector in question (cylinder #6) for signs of fuel leakage. If the injector is wet with fuel, suspect that it has failed.
If no obvious mechanical issues are discovered in the engine bay, there are several tools that will be required to continue your diagnosis:
Next, I would connect the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic port. I would retrieve all stored codes and freeze frame data, then write it all down for later use. Now, I would clear the codes and test-drive the vehicle to see if any are reset.
Access the scanner data stream and observe oxygen sensor operation in order to see if a lean exhaust condition actually exists. I like to narrow the data stream to include only pertinent data. This yields a faster data response time and a more accurate reading.
If an actual lean exhaust condition is present:
Step 1
Use the fuel pressure gauge to test fuel pressure and compare it with manufacturer’s specifications. If fuel pressure is within specs, proceed to Step 2. If fuel pressure is below minimum specifications, use the DVOM to test fuel pump relay and fuel pump voltage. If the fuel pump is being supplied an acceptable level of voltage (usually battery voltage), remove the fuel filter and see if it is clogged with debris. If the filter is clogged, it should be replaced. If the filter is not clogged, suspect fuel pump failure.
Step 2
Access the injector connector (for the injector in question) and use the DVOM (or a noid lamp if available) to test for injector voltage and a ground pulse (the latter from the PCM). If no voltage is discovered at the injector connector, proceed to Step 3. If voltage and a ground pulse are present, reconnect the injector and use a stethoscope (or some other listening device) and listen to it with the engine running. An audible clicking sound should be repeated in regular intervals. If the sound is not present, or if it is intermittent, suspect that the injector for the cylinder in question has failed or is clogged. Either condition will likely warrant replacement of the injector.
Step 3
Most modern fuel injection systems provide a constant supply of battery voltage to each fuel injector, with the PCM supplying a ground pulse at the appropriate instant, to complete the circuit and result in a spray of fuel to the cylinder. Use the DVOM to test system fuses and relays for battery voltage. Replace fuses and/or relays as needed. Test system fuses with the circuit under load.
I have been deceived by a defective fuse that seemed good when the circuit was not loaded (key on/engine off) then failed with the circuit loaded (key on/engine running). If all system fuses and relays are good and there is no voltage present, use your vehicle information source to trace the circuit. Chances are that it will take you to the ignition switch or fuel injection module (if applicable). Make circuit repairs as required.
Note: Use caution when testing/replacing high pressure fuel system components.
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"Delete Error Code Permanently, Disable DTC Error Code Function for p02ae in the ECU"
In extreme cases, we even have the option to permanently remove the specific DTC p02ae and disable the function of the specific error code in the ECU. All other fault code functions will then continue to work to protect the engine. This is different from clearing an error code with a diagnostic device. We have the option to permanently remove the function of the specific error code, so that it never comes back. Also emergency running that occurs on the specific error code can be solved in most cases.
Of course we prefer to first try to solve the cause of the error code, but sometimes the only solution is to permanently disable the DTC function of p02ae.
