What does mass air flow meter mean i.e. MAF sensor circuit failure? What does the P0100 fault code mean? How to fix P0100 fault code? In this article, we will give information about the mass air flow meter, that is, the MAF sensor circuit failure code. The fault code P0100 is a generic OBD-2 fault code for vehicles equipped with a mass air flow sensor (MAF). It usually points to the same problem on all vehicles. But it may indicate a different problem with some makes and models. For this reason, if you have an error code P0100 in your vehicle, you should definitely check the service book of your vehicle.
Since 1996, computer technology has been used in automobiles. The engine control unit (ECU), a computer system that controls the engine and mechanical components of automobiles, monitors the sensors in almost every part and manages the most efficient and performance operation of the engine. Many sensors were utilized, from fuel to engine timing and adjusting the amount of air. One of these sensors is the mass air flow meter, or MAF sensor. The task of the MAF sensor is to measure the flow rate of the air sucked into the engine, informing the ECU to adjust the amount of fuel accordingly and to regulate the ignition timing.
What does the P0100 fault code mean : Like anything electric, the MAF sensor operates at a voltage. An electrical signal between 1.5 and 5 volts is sent from the ECU to the MAF sensor. This signal varies according to the flow rate of the air. For example, the car is between 1.5 volts when idling and 5 volts when operating at the highest speed. It detects this with the help of a circuit. However, if the ECU detects a problem with the MAF sensor circuit, it issues a P0100 Airflowmeter (MAF) Circuit Failure Code.
P0100 Fault Code Symptoms
- As with any sensor failure, the engine failure light comes on
- Black smoke comes out of the exhaust.
- The engine can run hard, especially in the morning
- There may be fluctuation at idle.
- The engine can start with vibration and sound.
- Fuel consumption may increase.
P0100 Fault Code Causes
- The air flow meter can be clogged or dirty.
- The MAF sensor itself may be faulty.
- A break in the wires of the MAF sensor may be a short circuit.
- The MAF sensor temperature sensor may be defective.
- There may be a leak, crack or rupture in the engine air intake hoses.
P0100 Fault Code Repair, Fixes and Solutions
The location of the MAF sensor is located right in the middle of the large hose that brings air to the engine. After locating the MAF sensor, thoroughly check all the cable and connection connectors that come to the sensor. Make sure all cables are secure. Then check the air intake hoses into the engine. If necessary, see if there is a sparkling water leak. Remove the MAF sensor and clean the compressed air by holding it at a distance. The most common reason for the malfunctions related to the MAF sensor is its clogging and contamination. You should not be sure that the air filter is clean. When cleaning the MAF sensor, using a MAF cleaner spray will be of much more use. Make sure that some air hoses are not clogged if there is a wire strainer inside. Once you have done these, connect your car to the computer and check if it gives another fault along with the error code P0100. If there are other faults, go to their repair first. If everything is done, you will finally need to replace the mass air flow sensor.
Source: P0100 Fault Code – Air Flow Meter (MAF) Circuit Fault Error Code
