Fault code P2194 is called “System Too Rich At Higher Load (Bank 2)” but in different programs it may be called differently. This fault designation applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II.
Technical description and explained code P2194
This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is a general powertrain code. Error P2194 is considered a general code because it applies to all makes and models of vehicles. Although the specific repair steps may vary slightly depending on the model.
Fault code P2194 mainly concerns the value provided by the air/fuel ratio sensor, more commonly referred to as the oxygen sensor (located in the exhaust). Which helps the vehicle’s PCM (transmission control module) to control the amount of fuel injected into the engine.
Specifically, the PCM detects a lean mixture, which means too much air in the air/fuel ratio. This code is set for bank 2, represents a group of cylinders that does not include cylinder number 1. This could be a mechanical or electrical circuit malfunction, depending on the vehicle manufacturer and fuel system.
The troubleshooting steps may vary depending on the manufacturer, type of fuel system, type of mass air flow (MAF) sensor and wire colors. Also the type of air/fuel/oxygen ratio sensor (AFR / O₂).
Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions
The main signal that an error P2194 has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.
It can also be warning signs such as:
- Check engine” indicator light on the control panel is on.
- Lack of traction, lack of power.
- Jerking/missing ignition at idle or under load.
- Increased fuel consumption.
Factors that can cause this error code
The error code P2194 can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:
- Air/fuel/oxygen sensor (AFR / O₂) is defective.
- Faulty mass air flow sensor (MAF).
- Rarely, the transmission control module (PCM) is defective.
How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P2194
Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P2194:
- Fuel system, including fuel pressure regulator.
- Fuel pressure sensor.
- Fuel injectors.
- O₂ sensor after catalytic converter.
- EVAP system, including purge control valve.
- If the AFR / O₂ sensor indicates that the engine is running normally or even on lean mixture, the PCM can be suspected if all other problems are eliminated.
All other codes must be diagnosed before determining the fault. Since the problems that cause the other codes to be displayed may also cause the fault code P2194 to be set.
Diagnose and repair of problems
The first order of business is always to check the technical service bulletins (TSB) for your particular vehicle. Your P2194 problem may already be a known problem with a known fix issued by the manufacturer. This can save you time and money during diagnosis.
Then locate the air/fuel/oxygen ratio sensor and mass air flow sensor on your particular vehicle. Once found, visually inspect the connectors and wiring. Look for scuffs, abrasions, exposed wires, burn spots, or melted plastic.
Disconnect the connectors and carefully inspect the terminals inside the connectors. See if they look rusted, burned, or otherwise damaged. You can buy an electrical contact cleaner from any parts store if terminal cleaning is required.
If that’s not possible, get medical alcohol and a brush with light plastic bristles to clean them. After that, let them air dry, take dielectric grease and coat the contacts to protect them.
If you have an OBD2 scanner, remove the diagnostic trouble codes from the memory and see if that code comes back. If it doesn’t, the problem is most likely related to the connection.
Check the sensor
If error P2194 returns, you will need to check the mass airflow sensor voltage signal on the PCM. Monitor the mass airflow sensor voltage on the diagnostic tool.
If the diagnostic tool is not available, check the signal coming from the mass airflow sensor with a digital voltmeter. With the sensor connected, the red wire of the voltmeter should be connected to the signal wire of the mass air flow sensor. The black wire of the voltmeter should be grounded, i.e. go to ground.
Start the engine and watch the input signal of the mass air flow sensor. The mass air flow sensor signal should increase as the engine speed increases.
Check the manufacturer’s specifications, as there may be a table informing you what the voltage should be at a given RPM. If this fails, replace the mass airflow sensor and try again.
On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently
Fault code P2194 can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:
- Audi
- BMW
- Ford (Focus)
- Hyundai
- Infiniti
- Kia
- Mazda
- Mercedes
- Mini
- Volkswagen
Fault code P2194 can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P0131, P0136, P0172, P0642, P2178, P2190, P2191.
