
If you replace or fix the MAF sensor, resetting the ECU should help it recognize proper readings and your engine will work properly again. Once this happens, the system will reset on a map that just allows you to reach your garage or a mechanic, and it’s not safe to keep driving like that. It’s the reaction of your ECU to bad readings from the mass airflow sensor.
#BAD MASS AIR FLOW SENSOR MANUAL#
On an automatic car, you probably won’t be able to shift above third gear, while manual cars might have a limited speed. You’ll recognize it by slow and sluggish acceleration, and the revs per minute (RPM) range that won’t rev above 2500 or 3000 range. If the computer recognizes the fault of this sensor, it will likely turn on a “limp home” mode. The reaction of the ECU on a bad mass airflow sensorĪs mentioned, the combustion system of modern cars is electronically operated, so all the information of the sensors like MAF goes to the ECU. Any change in this ratio results in either a lean condition or a rich condition which can harm your engine and it won’t work as it’s supposed to. It’s often measured in pounds, but you must get an idea of the ratio’s relevance. The right combustion mix in terms of air/fuel ratio is 14.7:1, which means 14.7 units of air on every single unit of fuel. It submits this information to the engine control unit (ECU) and the computer then uses it to measure the amount of fuel that injectors need to spray into the engine. Since it’s located between the air filter and the intake manifold, it measures the amount of air that passes through it. The real problem starts once it goes bad, as you’ll need to know when to replace it and what to do after replacing the MAF sensor. Still, even with a reduced airflow, the sensor will precisely measure the amount of air entering your chambers. Your air filter might be clogged and that only adds up to the difficulty of the MAF sensor working properly. Since the air intake system in your car works as a combination of different components that work together, it can sometimes be difficult to diagnose a bad MAF sensor. It’s a key component of the intake system and is located between the air filter and the intake manifold. What’s a MAF sensor?įirst things first – the mass airflow sensor accumulates data on the amount of air that passes into the engine.

That’s what this guide will help you do as we get into the symptoms and importance of maintaining your MAF sensor. Before this happens, it will leave signs behind so you can recognize MAF sensor symptoms and hopefully prevent further damage. It can get dirty, clogged, or simply wear off over time. It does an important job, so you can guess the troubles which occur once the sensor goes bad. The mass airflow sensor (MAF) is one of the key sensors which secures a precise mix of air and fuel for proper combustion. In modern vehicles, most of the systems are electronic and there are plenty of sensors that aid proper engine operation.
