How to Troubleshoot and Fix P2173 Jeep Compass DTC Code?

When your Jeep’s computer sets the P2173 trouble code, it’s an automatic sign that you should find the problem quickly and fix it. And the very first step in solving the code is to know the meaning of it & and to troubleshoot to get the root cause.

No need to worry anymore! Because in this intensive guide, we will highlight all the information about the P2173 code that has been set on your Jeep Compass. So let us get started!

What Does P2173 Jeep Compass Code Mean?

The P2173 is a DTC or Diagnostic Trouble Code that triggers when your jeep’s PCM or Powertrain Control Module detects a large vacuum leak or high airflow.

The Powertrain Control Module of your Jeep monitors the intake manifold pressures for calculating the air fuel ratio. When the intake manifold has a vacuum leak, it causes the P2173 trouble code.

Besides, it can also happen that the signal voltage of both throttle position sensors is stuck to 2.5V. When the Manifold Absolute Pressure sensor or MAP calculated pressure is less than the gas flow adaption value, the fault code is set on the Jeep.

Now let us see the breakdown of the P2173 DTC code.

P = Powertrain
2 = Manufacture specific numbers derived from the SAE standard
1 = Fuel & Airflow Monitoring
73 = Diagnostic Trouble Code Number (High Airflow/Vacuum Leak Detected [Slow Accumulation]

P2173 Code: What Causes High Airflow/Vacuum Leak on the Jeep Compass?

The vacuum leak is the leading cause of the P2173 trouble code in the Jeep Compass. Over time there can be a crack in the intake hose or a break in the rubber tubes connected to the intake manifold as a result of a vacuum leak.

Apart from that, the systems of the intake manifold that tap the vacuum supply can also start leaking vacuum. The faulty components & systems triggering the code in your Jeep Compass are as follows.

Restrictions or blockages in the exhaust system
Faulty internal components of the engine
Faulty Exhaust Gas Recirculation or EGR valve
Flawed MAP or Manifold Absolute Pressure sensor
Issue with the vacuum brake booster
The poor electrical connection of the Manifold Absolute Pressure sensor
An issue in the 5-volt supply circuit
Throttle position sensor issue
Problem with the Powertrain Control Module [PCM]

How to Troubleshoot & Fix P2173 Jeep Compass Code?

By now, you already know the causes that can set the P2173 code on your Jeep Compass. But no worries any more! You can learn how to fix the issue by following our guide below.

1. Inspect For Vacuum Leak

To resolve the P2173 code on the Jeep Compass, you first need to inspect the vacuum leak, as removing the leak can easily resolve the problem that you are experiencing.

Fixing the vacuum leak after finding it is not usually the problem because fixing the vacuum leak is very easy. The main challenge is finding out the leak.

You can check the vacuum leak of your Jeep Compass in many different ways. The identifying methods for vacuum leaks are as follows.

Method 1: By The Sound

When there is a vacuum leak on your Jeep Compass, it often makes a loud whooshing sound or whistle sound. Simply following the sound can help you get the vacuum leak’s source in your vehicle.

Method 2: Spraying Fluid

If there is no noticeable sound in your Jeep Compass, another technique can be used. Lightly spray the mist of brake cleaner, starter fluid, or carburetor cleaner in the places where the vacuum leak is suspected. It can often reveal the leak on the Jeep Compass.

[Note: When these fluids enter the intake manifold via the vacuum leak or by the throttle valve, it increases the RPM of the vehicle. If the fluids are engulfed by the engine of the jeep and the RPM changes, it will be impossible to find out the exact location of the vacuum leak.

So, it would help if you sprayed the fluids slightly in the suspected areas where there is a high possibility for an intake manifold leak, which needs to be isolated.]

Method 3: Using a smoke machine

One of the successful methods for locating the vacuum leak is using the smoke machine. To find the vacuum leak with the help of the smoke machine-

Turn off the motor of your Jeep Compass
Connect the smoke machine to the vacuum port

Now the smoke machine will create smoke into the intake manifold and other vacuum areas by creating pressure. As the pressure is made, the smoke will be forced out & if there is a leak in the vacuum system, you or the mechanic can quickly locate it in your Jeep Compass.

2. Examine the Components of the Vacuum Pressure System

If there is no sign of a vacuum leak in your Jeep Compass, the next thing you need to do is to inspect the system that the Powertrain Control Module uses to examine the intake manifold pressure.

The system consists of a MAP sensor or MAP, EGR valve, TPS, O2 sensor, intake manifold, or the other components that are used to operate the vacuum.

The Powertrain Control Module with this monitoring system adjusts the fuel ratio to the intake manifold. The system is also monitoring the high airflow of your Jeep Compass.

When any of the system’s sensors become faulty, it sets the code on the Jeep Compass. It is also possible that the flawed system is misinterpreting the false information triggering the code. Now you need to check all of these sensors to see whether any of these has become faulty.

Locate which sensor is faulty and replace the faulty one to fix the issue. Identifying the exact fault depends on the experience of the technician. You may need to take your Jeep Compass to the mechanics for diagnosing and fixing the issue.

Here are estimated costs for replacing the faulty components of the vacuum system in your Jeep Compass.

Components	Estimated Cost
Intake manifold gasket	$221
Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve or EGR Valve	$664.62
Power brake booster	$300-$700
MAP or Manifold Absolute Pressure sensor	$136
Throttle position sensor or TPS	$209

Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s answer some of the most asked queries of the Jeep Compass owner about the P2173 code. It will also help you to get a better idea of the matter.

Can you drive a Jeep Compass with P2173 Code?

The vacuum leak for the P2173 code is not a very severe issue. You can go with a P2173 code. But continuing to drive with the code can lead to more damage. So, you should fix the problem.

How Much Does It Cost to Fix Jeep Compass P2173 Code?

The cost to fix the Jeep Compass P2173 code depends on one hour’s labor. The labor cost also depends on the place where you are living. (https://whatthefab.com/) Overall the cost can be, on average, $75 to $150 per hour.

Do you need help fixing the P2173 code on the Jeep Compass?

Setting the P2173 code is relatively easy; simply replacing the faulty components can do the work. But the main problem is to locate the exact issue. Diagnosing the actual fault mostly depends on the experience. Therefore, if you are not confident, let the job be handled by a professional mechanic.

To Wrap Up!

Although the P2173 trouble code of the Jeep Compass is moderately severe, you should not leave the issue unencountered. The trouble code accompanies drivability symptoms on your Jeep Compass.

In most cases, the drivability symptoms become so annoying. So better to get the issue resolved in the first stage.