The P0169: Incorrect Fuel Composition indicates that the fuel in the vehicle does not match the expected composition. This could be due to contaminated fuel, a faulty fuel composition sensor, or using the incorrect fuel type.
P0169 – Quick Overview
| Meaning | P0169: Incorrect Fuel Composition |
| Is it serious? | Yes, this code can be serious as it may lead to poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential engine damage if not addressed. |
| Possible causes | – Contaminated fuel – Faulty fuel composition sensor – Incorrect fuel type – Faulty PCM |
| How to diagnose? | – Test the fuel for contamination. – Inspect the fuel composition sensor for proper operation. – Verify that the correct fuel type is being used. – Replace or repair any faulty components. |
P0169 Meaning
The P0169: Incorrect Fuel Composition code means that the fuel in the vehicle doesn’t match the expected composition, which could result in engine performance issues. This could be caused by contaminated fuel, a malfunctioning sensor, or the use of an incorrect fuel type.
Step-by-step diagnostic guide
Follow the outline procedure to diagnose this DTC by eliminating possible causes one by one.
| Action | Description | Tools Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Check for Other Codes | Use an OBD-II scanner to check if there are any other related codes present. These might give additional clues about the problem. | OBD-II Scanner |
| Test the Fuel for Contamination | Take a sample of the fuel and test it for contaminants such as water, dirt, or other impurities. | Fuel Testing Kit, Clean Container |
| Inspect the Fuel Composition Sensor | Check the fuel composition sensor for proper operation. Ensure it is clean, properly connected, and functioning according to specifications. | Flashlight, Multimeter |
| Verify the Fuel Type | Confirm that the correct type of fuel is being used in the vehicle as specified by the manufacturer. | Vehicle Owner’s Manual, Fuel Type Chart |
| Repair or Replace Faulty Components | If the fuel composition sensor or any other components are found to be faulty, repair or replace them as necessary. Ensure that any contaminated fuel is removed and replaced with the correct fuel. | Replacement Fuel Composition Sensor, Fuel Drain Kit |
| Clear the Code and Test Drive | After completing the necessary repairs, clear the P0169 code using the OBD-II scanner. Take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure the issue is resolved and the code does not return. | OBD-II Scanner, Vehicle Owner’s Manual |
| Recheck for Codes | After the test drive, re-scan the vehicle to ensure the P0169 code has not reappeared. If the code returns, further diagnosis may be required. | OBD-II Scanner |
Free PDF: How to choose OBD2 scanner
I’ve made you a free PDF to choose the OBD2 scanner in 5 minutes.
✅ Which OBD2 scanner is best?
✅ Which type should you get (DIY, Pro, Hobby)
✅ What is the best scanner for the exact brand/feature (e.g best for BMW)
✅ How to get a Bi-Directional tool for as cheap as $40
✅ Discount coupons for scanners
PDF is 100% free and it is designed to help you pick a scanner in less than a few minutes! Not a boring 50-page guide.
Just tell me where to send it.
Hi, I am Juraj “Yuri” Lukacko. I got frustrated by unhelpful and scammy mechanics, so I decided to learn everything about car diagnostics myself. I test dozens of new car diagnostic tools every month along with learning new strategies to fix and customize cars. About Juraj Lukacko (Yuri)