P1136Manufacturer-specific code

P1136 Code: Long Term Fuel Trim Additive (Air), Bank 1: System Too Lean (Volkswagen)

On Volkswagen, Audi, Seat and Skoda, the P1136 code means the additive (air) long term fuel trim on bank 1 ran out of range because the mixture was too lean. Expect a rough idle. Unmetered air at idle is the usual cause.

Severity
Medium
Can I keep driving?
Yes, but with caution
Estimated cost
$20 to $500
Difficulty
Medium
System
Air and Fuel
Applies to
Depends on the manufacturer

Common in: Audi, Seat, Volkswagen

Updated Reviewed by Renzo Chacca

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What the P1136 code means

P1136 is a manufacturer-specific code: the 1 in the second position means each automaker defines what it stands for, not the generic standard. The most widespread definition is the one used by Volkswagen, Audi, Seat and Skoda. If your vehicle is another brand, confirm the code text with a scan tool that supports that manufacturer.

ManufacturerMeaning of P1136
Volkswagen, Audi, Seat and SkodaLong term fuel trim, additive (air), bank 1: system too lean

Volkswagen splits the learned mixture correction into two parts: the multiplicative part, which counts more under load, and the additive part, which counts more at idle because it makes up for air that enters without being measured.

The computer sets the P1136 code when the additive (air) correction reached its limit because the mixture was too lean. A failing additive part points to unmetered air at idle.

Before you repair anything, confirm the make, model, year and engine. With manufacturer codes, the same number can change even between engines from the same brand.

P1136 code symptoms

  • Check engine light on.
  • Rough idle.
  • Hesitation or jerking.

Likely causes of the P1136 code

  1. Vacuum leak. The most frequent cause for the additive trim.
  2. Broken crankcase ventilation or oil separator. Very common on VW engines.
  3. Intake manifold gasket. Confirm it with the tests in the diagnosis section.
  4. MAF sensor. Confirm it by comparing its reading with the actual value.

How to diagnose the P1136 code step by step

  1. Read the mixture measuring blocks with VCDS or a compatible scan tool.
  2. Look for vacuum leaks with a smoke machine.
  3. Check the MAF sensor and the idle airflow for your engine size.
  4. Measure the fuel pressure.

How to fix the P1136 code

  • Repair the leak or the failed component.
  • Reset the mixture adaptations.
  • Verify in the measuring blocks that the P1136 code does not come back.

Technical reference data

  • Normal adaptation: within about plus or minus 10 percent.
  • P1xxx codes are manufacturer-specific: confirm the definition with a scan tool that supports your brand.
  • Values are approximate: check the manufacturer data for your vehicle.

Brand-specific notes

Common on the Volkswagen Golf, Jetta, Bora, Polo and Passat, the Audi A3 and A4, and the Seat Ibiza and Leon.

If your vehicle is another brand, check the table above for the meaning its manufacturer gives the code, and confirm it with a scan tool that supports that brand.

Frequently asked questions about P1136

What does the P1136 code mean on a Volkswagen?
It means the additive (air) long term fuel trim on bank 1 ran out of range because the mixture was too lean. You may notice a rough idle.
Does P1136 mean the same thing on every brand?
No. It is a manufacturer code, and on other brands it may not exist or it may mean something else.
Can I drive with a P1136 code?
Yes, with caution. A mixture that stays lean can stress the engine, so do not put off finding the leak.
How much does it cost to fix P1136?
On a Volkswagen the cost runs from about $20 to $500. A vacuum hose is cheap, while a manifold gasket or oil separator costs more.
Will a P1136 code clear itself?
No, not while the unmetered air is still getting in. Clearing the adaptations may turn the light off for a while, but the code returns until the leak is repaired.
What is the most common cause of P1136?
A vacuum leak, often at the crankcase ventilation or oil separator on VW engines. Check the intake manifold gasket and the MAF sensor next.

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Questions about the P1136 code

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