Trouble P0101 - Mass Air Flow Sensor Range/Performance

Symptoms

The engine control unit (ECU) uses the signal from the mass air flow sensor to determine the amount of fuel injected. If the sensor does not measure air flow correctly, the fuel injection system will not function properly. Common symptoms include:

• The engine stalls.
• Difficulty starting.
• The engine starts and stalls.
• Reduced power.
• Unstable idle.

Because the MAF sensor readings are used to calculate engine load, the traction control system may stop working and the traction control warning light on the instrument panel may also come on. For the same reason, the automatic transmission's shift pattern may also change.

Methods for eliminating and resetting errors

Experts recommend following an action algorithm that will help identify the cause of the problem and eliminate the fault code. To do this you need:

1. Check all cables leading to the mass air flow sensor. It is necessary to ensure their integrity. If there are problems, repair or replace.
2. Check the system for leaks. Also, lack of vacuum on the sensor can cause a problem.
3. Inspect the sensor power supply cable. If dirty, clean it.
4. Replace the air filter if there is a large amount of dust and dirt.
5. Replace damaged equipment. It is important to use only original spare parts, because uncertified equipment does not guarantee a solution to the problem.

In addition, low minimum air flow can cause the P0101 code to appear. It will occur when the vehicle is slowing down or idling.

Diagnostic equipment can be used to find the cause. This will allow you to obtain data on various indicators in real time.

If there is a real need to replace the intake sensor due to error P0101, it is recommended to install original equipment. Installing devices of questionable origin may not solve the problem and lead to undesirable consequences in the future.

Causes

The most common causes of the P0101 code are:

• Dirty, clogged or faulty mass air flow sensor (MAF).
• Cracked, torn or disconnected inlet pipe.
• Vacuum leaks (stuck open PCV valve - positive crankcase ventilation system, leaking intake gaskets, etc.)
• The air filter is clogged or incorrectly installed.
• The MAF measuring element is contaminated with oil.
• The catalytic converter is clogged or there is a restriction in the exhaust system.

Other possible causes include:

• Dirty throttle body.
• Faulty or dirty manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor.
• Electrical problems with the MAF connector or wiring.
• The open PCV valve is stuck.
• Incorrect valve timing setting.
• Faulty ECU (rare).

Code meanings for self-diagnosis

Using the on-board computer, the driver can determine the following faults:

• Code “ 2
  ” – excessive voltage in the on-board network. To eliminate it, you need to check the main electrical circuits;
• The number “ 3
  ” indicates a malfunction of the fuel control indicator;
• «4
  » – problems with the refrigerant temperature sensor;
• The number “ 5
  ” means incorrect operation of the environmental indicator;
• Code “ 6
  ” means engine overheating;
• «7
  » – critical lubricant pressure;
• The number “ 8
  ” indicates a malfunction in the brake system;
• «9
  » – signals that the battery is low;
• The " E
  " symbol indicates a problem with the packet data.

It is worth noting that if the BC options switch key is inactive for more than 10 seconds, the instrument panel will return to normal operation.

How to diagnose code P0101?

First you need to check and clean the mass air flow sensor if it is dirty. Sometimes a foreign object such as a sheet or dust can clog the MAF sensing element, causing this code.

If the problem began shortly after replacing the air filter, you need to check its installation and the mass air flow sensor.

In some cars (for example, Volkswagen) a metal mesh grille is installed before connecting the air filter. It needs to be checked and cleaned.

The inlet pipe should be inspected for cracks and breaks. This problem is common on many European cars, such as BMW, Volvo. Other possible sources of air leaks should be checked.

Air flow can be checked using a diagnostic scan tool or adapter that displays data in real time. The MAF readings at different speeds (for example, 1000, 2000, 3000 rpm) should be compared with the manufacturer's specifications or with the readings of a known good sensor. Air flow sensor malfunctions are common on many vehicles (eg BMW, VW, Mercedes-Benz, GM).

In some vehicles (eg Chevy Tahoe, Silverado), the P0101 code may be caused by a clogged catalytic converter. To diagnose this problem, you need to check the exhaust back pressure or engine vacuum.

Diagnostic methods

As of 2022, there are two popular ways to find and decipher errors in a Lada Kalina computer of both generations.

Self-diagnosis

The easiest and most common way to diagnose error codes on a VAZ Kalina is to search using the on-board network. The procedure looks like this.

1. Insert the key into the lock cylinder.
2. Next, hold down the RESET key and, without releasing it, turn on the ignition
3. In this case, the device will automatically switch to diagnostic mode. At the same time, all the indications will light up, and the instrument arrows will make a full circle. You should pay attention to the arrows and indicators - if any diode does not light up, you need to check the device for which the element is responsible.
4. On the right steering column lever there is a button for scrolling through the options - you need to scroll to the required position (error codes).
5. Next, the display will show the general error number; to reset the index, you need to hold RES for three seconds.

Note! The indicated sequence is relevant for Lada Kalina of the first and second modifications.

The position of the error codes will show one of the indices on the display:

• “2” – there is a surge in the BS power supply – a possible short circuit in the wiring;
• “3” – rupture of lines, or failure of the float inside the gas tank;
• error 4 Lada Kalina says that the coolant temperature sensor is broken or malfunctioning;
• “5” – the thermometer has gone astray, the element may be damaged or the circuit may be broken;
• “6” – exceeding the maximum permissible temperature of the internal combustion engine block, while the acoustic alarm is working;
• “7” – exceeding the permissible pressure thresholds inside the oil line;
• “8” - on a Lada Kalina car, error 8 appears when there is a malfunction of the calipers or a breakdown in the hydraulic drive line;
• “9” – critical voltage drop in the battery;
• “E” – incorrect reading or display of the EEPROM information module.

To return to the starting part, it is enough to hold RES for 30 s. The disadvantage of this method is minimal accuracy - the procedure shows in which direction to look for a breakdown, but not a specific node. So, it is possible to understand exactly where the failure occurred only by the following method.

Check via external system

To perform the procedure, you will need to connect a PC to the diagnostic output of the machine. The terminal is located under the dashboard on the right (location may vary depending on the batch and year of manufacture). After pairing is established, standard codes begin to appear in the software window. Markings are required for versatility - the car is also supplied for export, which would require re-flashing the BC for each language - this is not at all convenient and requires the investment of large resources and time, that’s why it is so. When you activate the program, five-digit codes appear on the screen. Each element speaks about a unique indicator. First letter of the index:

• P – electrical defect;
• C – the problem is in the chassis electrical circuit;
• B is the root of evil in the interior space of the cabin;
• U – loss of synchronization of several circuits.

The first element of the digital combination is indicated next:

• 0 – OBD 2;
• 1 and 2 – standard enterprise code (it is not known for certain what this means);
• 3 – spare system.

These indicators indicate a faulty unit. Next in order is the number of the on-board circuit where the defect is located:

• 0 – exhaust installation and muffler;
• 1 – supply of oxygen inside the internal combustion engine;
• 2 – gasoline supply;
• 4 – secondary control of the installation;
• 5 – incorrect setting of crankshaft speed;
• 7 and 8 – transmission units, drive units, axles.

The last part of the encoding indicates directly the defect number in order.

Examples of what can cause a P0101 code

Often the P0101 code is caused by a vacuum leak. Air leakage allows “unmetered air” to enter the engine, bypassing the mass air flow sensor.

In the photo you can see a cracked corrugation on the inlet. The amount of air entering the intake manifold through this crack is not measured by the sensor, so the MAF reads much less airflow than it actually does.

One of the symptoms of air leaks is a hissing sound coming from under the hood when the engine is idling.

Read more: Air leaks and how to find them at home

In the second photo you can see a deposit of oil that is blocking the sensor's measuring element. Because of this, the air flow sensor cannot read the air flow correctly and sets the code P0101.

Error 1602

If the standard on-board computer of the Lada Priora 16 valves showed error 1602, then this indicates that the on-board voltage in the controller has decreased.

As practice has shown, this error 1602 does not affect the performance of Priora in any way.

If you remove the terminal from the battery, the problem disappears for a while, but it will definitely appear again. There may be more than one reason for this error to appear:

1. Generator malfunction. To determine accurately, you need to measure its voltage in operating condition, it should be within 14 V.
2. A large voltage drop when starting the engine also leads to this error. First of all, you need to check the ground and the ECU.
3. This error code also appears when the security system blocks one of the electrical circuits.

Common Problems Causing Code P0101 on Different Vehicles

In some GM and Chevrolet cars and trucks, code P0101 can be caused by a clogged catalytic converter. A clogged catalytic converter can be checked by measuring intake vacuum and exhaust backpressure. Associated symptoms may include misfire with codes P0300 to P0308, lack of traction under heavy load or during acceleration, and overheating of the catalyst.

Another problem in some GM vehicles is leaking intake manifold gaskets. One of the symptoms of a leaking gasket is rough idle when cold.

On vehicles with an oil-soaked air filter, oil from the filter can contaminate the air flow sensor element, causing a P0101 code or other MAF-related codes.

In some Volvo vehicles, the P0101 code can be caused by a dirty throttle body or vacuum leaks in the positive crankcase ventilation system (such as the vacuum line to the oil separator). A dirty throttle body will need to be cleaned and the intake manifold will need to be checked for air leaks.

The repair technical bulletin for some 2011-2012 Nissan Altima, Maxima and Sentra models recommends reprogramming the ECU if the P0101 code persists and there are no drivability problems.

How to check errors on Priora

Troubleshooting is performed using two methods.

1. A simple check involves reading simple codes using the built-in diagnostic equipment. Here you can read single-digit or two-digit encodings indicating the on-board circuit where there is a problem. The downside is mediocre accuracy. The advantages include the simplicity and speed of diagnosis.
2. If more detailed information is required, connecting external diagnostic equipment will help you find out the errors. This will require some experience and knowledge.

How does the P0101 code work?

Code P0101 means that the signal from the mass air flow sensor (MAF) is outside the expected range. The mass air flow sensor is installed at the engine inlet, immediately after the air filter. It measures the amount of air entering the engine through the throttle valve.

The engine control unit (ECU) uses the signal from the mass air flow sensor to operate the fuel injection system. When the car accelerates, the throttle valve opens and allows more air to enter the engine. The mass air flow sensor takes into account the air flow and sends a signal to the ECU, which in turn instructs the fuel injection system to add more fuel. Likewise, when low airflow is calculated, the ECU reduces the fuel supply.

The control unit checks the rationality of the MAF signal by comparing it with signals from the intake air temperature sensor (IAT), manifold absolute pressure sensor (MAP), throttle position sensor (TPS) and some others.

If the signal from the mass air flow sensor is lower or higher than expected, the controller detects a malfunction and stores code P0101 in its memory. In many cars, the air flow sensor signal is used to determine the shift mode of the automatic transmission. Often, if there is a problem with the air flow sensor, the automatic transmission may shift differently.

If the air flow sensor is faulty, replacing it with an original part will ensure that further problems will not be caused by a low-quality spare part.

Error p0101 VAZ 2114 injector 8 valves

An error occurs: P0101 mass air flow sensor signal is outside the permissible range.
You remove it, and after a while it appears again. I checked the voltage - 0.9. Car VAZ 2115 2010. Brains - M73. What could it be? First, you need more information about the system parameters, so you can guess for a long time.

Here I am attaching more data. What else do you need? you speak. I'm just starting to figure it out

First you need to warm up the engine to operating temperature, judging by the table the temperature is only 76 degrees.

Here I am attaching new data

dr_max

Your OZ is in the minus and the IAC steps do not correspond to the idle mode, and the injection time is barely within the norm when it is warmed up. Let's look at the typical ones https://ad-cd.net/879da64s-960.jpg And we have: 69 - 71 steps and SOP 6 - 8 at 940 - 960 rpm, and hence the inadequate air and fuel consumption (l/h).

In addition, there are misfires on all cylinders

- can be a cause or a consequence of what is written above. This needs to be dealt with first.

Source

Tips to Avoid P0101 in the Future

Dirt and carbon deposits in the engine can cause many problems, including trouble code P0101. Check the air filter regularly and make sure it is installed correctly when replacing it. Regular maintenance of your engine fluids, especially oil, will also help keep your engine clean.

This code can also be caused by worn wire insulation. Make sure all wires are kept away from ignition coils and other potential sources of damage.

Previous Post Trouble P0325 - Knock Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1)

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Malfunctions of auxiliary systems and ignition

Camshaft sensor location

P0337 - crankshaft sensor shorted to ground;

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ABS fault detection

You can find out about problems with the ABS by looking at the indicator light on the instrument panel. If it lights up for no reason or does not go out after the required period of time, you need to go to a service station and undergo computer diagnostics. Modern Priora ECUs have a diagnostic connector through which you can easily connect a portable scanner or a stationary motor tester.

All ABS electronics are connected to the mechanical part of the car, so only an experienced diagnostic technician can accurately determine the error that the system produces. ABS error codes start with 0035 and end with 0800. In order to deal with them correctly and determine the reason for the light bulb to light up, you need to have a table of error decoding on hand or resort to qualified help.

Error p0422

This error informs the owner of the Priora that the effectiveness of the neutralizer has been reduced below the permissible level. Practice shows that error p0422 appears on the screen of a 16-valve Priora quite rarely, but if it does happen, you must:

1. Inspect the catcollector. Its body must be free of mechanical damage.
2. If any defects are found, it must be replaced.
3. If the cause of error p0442 is not in this element, you need to contact specialists, since in some cases the catalytic collector will need to be re-flashed.

Error p1558

It often appears when the throttle valve is not operating correctly, the quality of which leaves much to be desired. It does not interfere with the proper functioning of the engine, but you should still try to remove it. Some people prefer to solve this problem by flashing it, but there is another way.

To do this, you need to remove the throttle valve, disassemble it and lubricate the plastic gear, which is the working part of this element. In most cases, after lubricating the gear, error p1558 disappears.

Error p0504

Many drivers do not understand what the appearance of code p0504 on the display means. This error appears when the brake pedal sensor is faulty. To determine the exact reason for the appearance of this code, you need to disassemble the sensor and carefully examine it. Perhaps one of the springs has burst or the contacts have simply burned out. In some cases, error p0504 on a Priora appears due to the incorrect position of the brake pedal sensor. It must be installed in the correct position, then error p0504 will disappear.