Mass or Volume Air Flow Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance
What it means
The engine computer compares the mass airflow (MAF) reading with the value it expects from engine speed, throttle position and manifold pressure. When they do not agree, it sets this code; the most common causes are a dirty sensor or air entering without passing through it.
Related lights
Dashboard lights that may come on with this code.
Symptoms5
- Check engine light on.
- Weak acceleration or hesitation on the accelerator.
- Rough idle or stalling after starting.
- Higher fuel consumption.
- Lean or rich codes may appear alongside it.
Possible causes6
- Dust or oil contamination on the MAF sensing element.
- Air leak in the intake duct between the MAF sensor and the throttle body.
- Clogged or incorrectly installed air filter.
- Vacuum leak from hoses or the PCV valve.
- Wrong or failed MAF sensor.
- Fault in another sensor the computer uses for comparison, such as the MAP or throttle position sensor.
How to diagnose5
- Read all codes; P0171 or P0174 alongside it point toward an air leak or a dirty sensor.
- Watch the MAF reading on a scan tool at idle and at higher RPM, and compare it with the expected value for the engine size.
- Inspect the air filter, intake duct and clamps for cracks or looseness.
- Have a smoke test done on the intake manifold and vacuum hoses.
- Check fuel trims; high trims at idle that drop at higher speed point to an air leak.
How to fix6
- Replace the air filter and seat its cover properly.
- Repair a cracked duct or loose clamp in the intake.
- Clean the MAF sensor with a dedicated cleaner without touching the element.
- Fix any vacuum hose leak.
- Replace the MAF sensor if its reading stays illogical after cleaning.
- Clear the codes and confirm the sensor reading and fuel trims return to normal.
Repair cost
In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.
In the Saudi market: SAR 80–1,200 (≈ USD 21–320)
Our prices come from the Saudi market, converted at a fixed rate (SAR 3.75 per USD). Prices in your country may differ a lot, so we show the cost level.
The fix is often a sensor cleaning or a new air filter at low cost; it rises when the MAF sensor must be replaced.
Prices are rough estimates for common cars at independent workshops and vary with the car and the source of the part.
Prices last updated: September 2026
Frequently asked questions
Is cleaning the MAF sensor enough?
Often yes, especially if it is coated with dust or oil from a washable air filter. If the code returns, look for an air leak after the sensor.
Can a performance air filter cause this code?
It can if it is over-oiled and oil reaches the sensor, or if it changes the airflow pattern in the intake duct.
Is this code harmful to the engine?
Not immediately, but an inaccurate mixture raises fuel use and can lead to misfires over time.
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