P0101
Generic (SAE)
Mass Air Flow Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
Severity
Medium
Typical repair cost
15 – 350 EUR
System
Powertrain
What it means
The air flow reported by the mass air flow sensor does not match what the control module expects for the current throttle position, engine speed and manifold pressure.
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Symptoms
- Check engine light
- Hesitation and poor acceleration
- Rough or hunting idle
- Black smoke or lean running
Common causes
- Dirty or oil-contaminated sensor element
- Air leak between sensor and throttle body
- Clogged air filter
- Damaged wiring or connector
- Failed sensor
How to diagnose
- Inspect the air filter and intake ducting
- Clean the sensor with mass air flow cleaner only
- Compare reported grams per second at idle with the expected value for the engine size (roughly 1 g/s per litre)
- Check wiring and connector for corrosion
Frequently asked questions
Can I clean the MAF sensor myself?
Yes. Use only a dedicated MAF cleaner, never touch the wires, and let it dry fully before refitting.
Terms to know
Related codes
Nearby codes in this group
- P0100Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit
- P0102Mass or Volume Air Flow "A" Circuit Low Input
- P0103Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit High Input
- P0104Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit Intermittent
- P0105Manifold Absolute Pressure/Barometric Pressure Circuit
- P0106Manifold Absolute Pressure / Barometric Pressure Circuit Range/Performance
- P0107Manifold Absolute Pressure/Barometric Pressure Circuit Low Input
- P0108Manifold Absolute Pressure/Barometric Pressure Circuit High Input