Monitor Description

The MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor helps the ECM calculates the amount of air flowing through the throttle valve. The ECM uses this information to determine the fuel injection time and provides a proper air-fuel ratio. Inside the MAF sensor, there is a heated platinum wire exposed to the flow of intake air. By applying a specific current to the wire, the ECM heats this wire to a given temperature. The flow of incoming air cools the wire and an internal thermistor, changing their resistance. To maintain a constant current value, the ECM varies the voltage applied to these components in the MAF sensor. The voltage level is proportional to the air flow through the sensor and the ECM interprets this voltage as the intake air amount. If there is a defect in the sensor or an open or short circuit, the voltage level will deviate outside the normal operating range. The ECM interprets this deviation as a defect in the MAF sensor and sets a DTC.

Example: If the voltage is more than 2.2 V at idle, or less than 0.4 V at idle off, the ECM interprets this as a defect in the MAF sensor and sets a DTC.