What is MAF or Mass Air Flow Sensor?
MAF sensor helps us measure the amount of air the engine takes within its load. The sensor not only calibrates the amount of air but the density as well. The engine of various brands has these sensors installed in them for the smooth working of its engine. Present-day vehicles come in two popular designs one of them produces a variable voltage output and the other one releases digital output.
Like other car parts, contaminants get inside the sensor or undergo regular wear and tear. Therefore, find the online store selling MAF sensor near you and replace it with a new one.
Location of MAF Sensors
MAF sensors lie between the air filter and throttle body and are used to measure the air entering the engine. Perform the following steps to locate the airflow sensor within your car:
- Open the hood there you’ll find the air cleaning assembly.
- You’ll find a plastic tube connecting the air intake manifold to the engine within the air cleaning assembly.
- You will come across the mass airflow sensor inside the plastic housing.
*If you are unable to find the MAF sensor location refer to your vehicle’s manual.
How Exactly Does a MAF Sensor Work?
A hot wire MAF sensor comes with a small electrical wire. A temperature sensor has been installed to calculate the air temperature near the wire. When the engine is in an idle state, a small amount of air passes through the engine with a low electric current used to keep the wire hot. The electric current depends on the air flowing through the engine. A chip has been installed in the sensor to convert electric current into a digital signal and is sent to the computer. The ultimate goal is to keep the air is to fuel ratio at optimum level.
Potential Reasons Behind a Malfunctioning Mass Air Flow Sensor
Over time MAF sensor becomes contaminated or fails completely. In such cases, the engine computer improperly calculates the injected fuel. Due to this, the mass airflow sensor gives rise to several issues, including issues while starting, stalling, shortage of power, and acceleration issues. The check engine light illuminates for a longer time, especially when there are issues with the airflow sensor. You might face issues while shifting the transmission with a faulty air flow sensor.
Ignition Issues
With problematic airflow sensors, you may face issues while starting the car. The engine might not receive the exact amount of air needed to make proper air is to fuel mixture. It is better to find online stores that sell mass airflow sensors, buy them and watch the DIY videos to save money on costly repairs.
Excess Fuel Consumption
If the car is performing optimally or is accelerating properly, but you are visiting the gas station quite often, it is due to a bad MAF sensor. Get the MAF sensor checked by the mechanic and install a new one if necessary.
Power Loss
With a malfunctioning sensor, you might encounter issues while starting your car. The vehicle rarely moves the moment the accelerator pedal is pressed.
Issues with mass airflow sensors can be determined by the following codes:
P0100:Malfunctioning air flow sensor.
PO101:Mass air flow sensor circuit range or performance.
PO102:Mass airflow sensor low
PO103:High mass airflow sensor.
PO104:Intemettient mass air flow sensor.
PO171 shows the system too lean while PO174(Bank 1) shows the system too lean(Bank 2).
Issues with the MAF sensor can be rectified by determining the mass airflow sensor replacement cost.
What is the Cost of the Mass Air Flow Sensor Replacement?
If the MAF sensor has gone bad, replacement is the only way to resolve the issue. The part cost lies between $89 to $380.The mechanic would also recommend some cleaning procedures which are quite delicate to handle. While inserting the sensor, ensure that the air filter is properly installed to help it function optimally. You can save money by purchasing it from a trusted store, ‘The Auto Parts Shop, ’ bringing the highest quality car parts to your doorstep.
In Conclusion, Replacement would be a suitable course of action in case of a problematic sensor. Not doing so would get you into costly repairs later on.