The mass airflow sensor is also referred to as MAF, an acronym that is known in the automobile industry. This sensor is located between the air filter and the throttle body, and its main function is to measure the amount of air that is entering the engine.
Now, most modern vehicles have a hot wire MAF sensor, which has one heated wire and one ambient temperature wire. The microprocessor inside the MAF sensor is responsible for measuring the air that enters the engine and maintaining the temperature of the hot wire above the ambient incoming air.
As a key component of the electronic fuel injection system, the mass airflow sensor measures the air mass flowing into the engine intake. Because of its tough job, a sensor like this can often fail. A faulty mass airflow sensor not only makes it difficult or impossible for the engine to control module (ECM) to calculate fuel injections but may also cause a myriad of other problems. Let’s look at some of the most common symptoms of mass airflow sensor failure.
3 Common Symptoms Of Mass Airflow Sensor Failure
We already mentioned how the mass airflow sensor collects information about air density, temperature, and other variables. It then sends information to the Engine Control Unit (ECU), which delivers the correct amount of fuel to the engine. Now, let’s take a look at the potential signs of failure and the first symptoms you’ll see if something is wrong.
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Check engine light
The first and most common sign of MAF failure is signaled by a check engine light that is on. Regardless of whether there are other signs of an issue, you need to take your car to your mechanic and have it thoroughly checked if this light comes on. In the aspect of mass airflow sensors, it may be a sign that the part is damaged, faulty, or just needs replacement.
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Car is misfiring or has trouble starting
If your car is misfiring or you are spotting signs of rough running, it might be due to the inadequate amount of airflow passing through its engine. This may lead to rough running or misfiring, caused by the imbalance where the powertrain can not know how much amount of fuel is needed to keep the engine functioning as it should be. Additionally, if you have difficulties starting the car engine due to the inadequate air-to-fuel ratio, it might cause your car to stop starting until your mass airflow sensor is repaired or replaced.
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Black exhaust smoke
If there is black smoke coming out of your exhaust pipe(s), it’s another major symptom that might be related to your mass airflow sensor. Noticing this sign and seeing your car producing black smoke might signal an imbalance in the levels monitored by the sensor. In a case like this, the sensor cannot properly get the right ratio, causing inadequate airflow.
Final thoughts
If your vehicle is showing signs of mass airflow sensor failure, it is not something you should leave unchecked. The signs from above are a good indicator that your car is having a MAF issue. However, there are even more symptoms that may lead to a potential mass airflow sensor repair or replacement.
Book your appointment at Stop&Go today and let our experienced mechanics run the needed diagnostics for your vehicle. We are Dubai’s most trusted location for mass airflow sensor repair and many other automotive repairs and services.