That would explain the t/c light.
Check the flex pipe for cracks.

 

Even a small vacuum leak will give ya P0171. Been there.

 

poured rain here yesterday, will try to do some more checking today. the intake pipe(about 3") was all broke so I taped it together could that give the code?

 

Um...definitely! Do yourself a favor, ditch that pick up the KN tube. 2005HHRAUTO, has said in the past it's one of the best mods to have. And it won't throw a CEL and doesn't need a tune. If your taping (lol) it up it will leak! It'll probably work for a bit, but invest when you get a chance.

 

On a 2.4L, I doubt it, but maybe.

If P0171 is the ONLY code the possibility is high that the fuel pump is to blame. That is easy to check, with a fuel pressure gage.

There are two options: too much air (vacuum leak?), or not enough fuel (bad pump?).

 

Yeah I guess if it was all busted up and sucking air it's not really a leak...just going round the filter. donbrew's got the right idea. Check fuel pressure..

 

will check fuel press, but wouldn't that cause hard starting? what's best way to check vacuum lines? vacuum pump?

 

What vacuum lines?

 

donbrew, the vacuum leak you referred to in your reply #15. just don't want to check more than I need to


P0171 is the only code I get other than t/c light

 

well just finished up working on HHR, put in new ac/delco plugs, had autolites in it(gag), new air filter(it was filthy),new cabin filter (it also was filthy), also found a small tube ( 3/8-1/2") runs from valve cover to intake(between MAF & throttle body) was split on end & wasn't even hooked up?? hope this cures problems. thanks for all the input.