P0104

Mass or Volume Air Flow Sensor A Circuit Intermittent

Car Fault Codes Fuel & air

Can you still drive? With care, short trips only

Who can fix it? DIY with some experience

Typical repair time 30 minutes – 2 hours

Typical cost SAR 100 to 1,200

What it means

The engine computer has seen the mass airflow (MAF) signal drop out or jump suddenly for short periods and then recover. This kind of fault is usually linked to a weak connection in the connector or wiring that reacts to vibration or heat.

Symptoms4

Check engine light that comes on and goes off.
Sudden stumbling or jerking while driving that then clears.
Brief stalling at idle.
Intermittent hesitation on acceleration.

Possible causes5

Loose or corroded pins inside the sensor connector.
Internally cracked wire or a wire rubbing on metal that shorts with vibration.
Weak ground connection.
Intermittent internal failure of the MAF sensor.
Moisture entering the connector after an engine wash or in humid weather.

How to diagnose5

Review the freeze frame data to learn the conditions when the fault occurred.
Watch the live MAF reading on a scan tool while gently moving the harness and connector, looking for sudden jumps.
Inspect the connector pins and how tightly they grip.
Trace the harness for rubbing points or cracks.
Inspect the ground point and its cleanliness.

How to fix5

Clean and tighten the connector pins, or replace a damaged connector.
Repair the chafed section of the harness and secure it away from moving parts.
Clean and retighten the ground point.
Replace the MAF sensor if the signal still jumps with good wiring.
Clear the codes and road test under conditions similar to when the fault appeared.

Repair cost

0–500

500–2,000

2,000–5,000

5,000+

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

The fix is often a low-cost connector or wire repair, but tracing an intermittent fault can take longer, and the cost rises if the 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

Why does the code come and go?

Because the fault is intermittent; a weak connection works at times and breaks with vibration or heat, so the light turns off after several good drive cycles.

Can it be diagnosed while the car runs normally?

Yes, by watching the sensor signal while moving the harness and connector; any jump in the reading reveals the weak connection.

This guide is for information only and does not replace an inspection by a qualified technician. If the fault involves brakes, steering, engine temperature, electrics or refrigerant, do not attempt the repair yourself.

Report a mistake

Spotted something inaccurate? Tell us and we will review and correct it.