Air is needed to burn the fuel in the engine. Without air, fuel won't explode. A mass air flow sensor (MAF sensor) determines the correct composition of air and fuel to ensure efficient combustion. You will find the MAF sensor on the air filter. The MAF sensor registers the air that is sucked in by the filter. In addition to the amount of air, the mass air flow sensor also measures the density of the air. The air supply registered by the air mass meter is then passed on to the computer. It is then determined how much fuel is injected into the cylinder. Over time, the mass air flow sensor can break, which makes it urgent to replace it. Below, you can read more on how to recognize a defective mass air flow sensor.
Faulty MAF sensor
A mass air flow sensor can fail over time, various defects can occur. The air mass sensor can be clogged as this part is extremely sensitive to pollution. Also, mechanical damage may have occurred. If you do not replace the air filter in time, the mass air flow sensor may get affected as well. If the air filter is seriously polluted, the air flow sensor will measure less efficiently. In addition, there is a chance that dirt will penetrate through the filter to the sensor. But also a defective air inlet can cause the air mass sensor to fail. Air may enter the meter outside the filter. A defective air mass sensor can be recognized by a number of symptoms. These symptoms can either be one or a combination of the following:
- The engine doesn´t start;
- Decreases engine power;
- Increasing fuel consumption;
- The dashboard warning light comes on;
- ´Check Engine´ light comes on;
- Problems shifting gears.
Clean MAF sensor
Do you recognize any of these symptoms? Then there is a chance that it is due to a faulty mass air flow sensor. In many cases, MAF sensor cleaning is sufficient, but if it's sensible to do is another question. The air flow sensor is one of the most sensitive car parts. Additionally, there is not a special cleaning agent for this part. In many cases, cleaning the air mass meter results in an even less efficient sensor. Replacing the part immediately is in many cases recommended.
Replacing mass air flow sensor
You can easily replace a mass air flow sensor yourself. It is a simple job that does not take too much time. You will find the air mass sensor right under the bonnet of your car. Before you start replacing it, make sure the engine is off and has cooled down. Also, make sure that the housing around the meter is dust-free. In addition, we also recommend replacing the air filter at the same time. This prevents contamination of the newly installed sensor. In short, you can replace a MAF sensor as follows; switch off the sensor contact, loosen the clamps and disconnect the exhaust pipe with the air filter housing. Now disconnect the air mass sensor. Fitting the new MAF sensor works in the reverse order.
Buy a new MAF sensor
Buying a mass air flow sensor is quick and easy at Winparts. Just enter your number plate or select your car manually by choosing your car?s make, model and engine type. Once done, the suitable products for your car will be displayed. You can also come to us for other parts for your car's fuel system. We offer a wide range of fuel tanks, fuel pumps, fuel hoses and much more.