Spark plug reading

[Shawn]

I need to fix this myself since it's out of warranty and I'm strapped for cash. Not really sure where to start though since I am not getting a CEL.

 

[Shawn]

bump

 

[DivideBYZero]

Running rich is usually a symptom of a MAF or O2 failure. If not those then some component of the air/fuel metering system. The ECU runs rich to prevent running lean and causing (pre)detonation aka knock.

 

[jaha2000]

Running rich is usually a symptom of a MAF or O2 failure. If not those then some component of the air/fuel metering system. The ECU runs rich to prevent running lean and causing (pre)detonation aka knock.

I would agree, ECU is in Limp mode, aka rich so it does not melt the top of the pistons.

MAF, O2 are great places to start.

 

[exdeath]

Check for boost/vacuum leaks also. Could be as simple as a charge pipe coupler torn or popped off. If you have an accurate boost gauge make sure you are seeing the expected boost. A small leak under even a light load will richen it up but not stay under load long enough to pull the trims far enough to set a light.

Vacuum leaks are a bitch to troubleshoot on boosted cars because it runs rich under boost and lean in vacuum and the computer goes back and forth on the corrections so it looks like its working properly.