Trouble P0101 - Mass Air Flow Sensor Range/Performance

Causes of error P0101

• The mass air flow sensor sends a signal to the engine control module (ECM) that is out of range.
• The mass air flow sensor is not functioning properly due to damage or malfunction.
• Electrical wires or the MAF sensor itself are located too close to higher voltage components (such as the alternator, ignition wires, etc.) which can cause interference that affects the signal sent to the vehicle's ECM.
• The problem could also be damaged vacuum hoses, which can lead to various problems and other error codes.
• The MAF sensor must operate within a certain range to be able to send the correct signals to the vehicle's ECM, which is necessary for proper engine operation.

How does the remote sensing position sensor work?

Most manufacturers equip cars with moving (contact) sensors, which are ponetiometers with a moving element. This is its weak point, because it experiences friction, which leads to rapid wear. Now there is an active transition to a contactless option. It has great operational potential and high accuracy of parameter measurement.

Using the mobile type as an example, we will consider the design features and operating principle of the PDZ sensor. It is rigidly fixed to the axle, into the throttle body. One end is connected to the battery, the other is connected to the negative electrode. They are supplied with voltage (5V). The third end moves along an axis on which the voltage changes when the damper changes position. The change interval is from 0.7 to 4V. This is indicated by the sensor in the ECU. This signal is fundamental in regulating the fuel system. Electronic control is carried out through sensors that transmit the following data:

1. Crankshaft rotation indicators
2. Air flow and temperature
3. Antifreeze temperatures
4. Throttle position
5. Feedback system (exhaust gas composition)
6. Detonation in the engine
7. Mains voltage
8. Travel speeds
9. Camshaft position
10. Activating the air conditioner
11. Irregularities in the road surface

How does a mechanic diagnose a P0101 code?

When diagnosing this error, the mechanic will do the following:

• Connects the OBD-II scanner to the vehicle's diagnostic connector and reads all stored data and error codes
• Visually inspect the engine, then clear the fault codes from the computer's memory and test drive the vehicle to see if P0101 appears again.

If the error code appears again:

• Check the electrical connector of the mass air flow sensor for looseness.
• Check the electrical wires related to the mass air flow sensor for damage
• Find out if electrical wires or the MAF sensor itself are located too close to higher voltage components

Why was the throttle valve equipped with a sensor?

The injector is equipped with flaps that change the angle of location, opening/closing the gap for the passage of air flow. Its volume should be enough to create a mixture with fuel in optimal proportions (ideally 14.7 parts of air per 1 part of gasoline). The mixture is then injected in portions into the engine cylinders, where it is burned.

In order to successfully regulate all stages of fuel supply (and this is a huge number of parameters), the electronic unit needs a reliable assistant who will collect and send truthful and timely information to the central authority.

Such functions are assigned to a miniature device - the PDZ sensor, the trouble-free operation of which determines the proper and efficient functioning of the engine.

The data from this sensor forms the basis for the calculation parameters for many electronic systems controlled by the ECU:

Common mistakes when diagnosing code P0101

• The most common mistake when diagnosing a P0101 code is to hastily replace the MAF sensor without first checking the associated electrical wires and connector for damage.
• It is also a mistake to neglect to check the mass air flow sensor for excessive carbon buildup before replacing it. Sometimes the problem can be solved by cleaning the sensor using a special cleaner designed for mass air flow sensors.
• Another mistake is neglecting to check the vacuum hoses for wear and damage.

Primary sources of sensor failure

The most obvious reason for the incorrect operation of such a device is wear. Moreover, the wear of different parts has different effects on the system.

• Erasing conductor coating. Therefore, it becomes impossible to fix the voltage indicator.
• Exhausted wear reserve of the moving element of the sensor. When the gap between it and the axle conductor becomes too wide, contact between them is lost. At the same time, the check does not pop up. You can guess about it by the intermittent operation of the engine in different modes.
• Oxidation, rust coating, accumulation of a layer of contamination on the contacts.

After detecting such design changes, you have no choice, the device cannot be repaired, it must be replaced. Of course, it is better to purchase a contactless device. It is much more reliable, because it has no rubbing elements.

How serious is P0101?

• When the P0101 error code appears, there are usually no serious problems with the vehicle's drivability, however, if this code is detected, it is recommended that you contact a qualified technician as soon as possible to diagnose and repair the error.
• Under certain circumstances, damage or failure of the mass air flow sensor can lead to increased fuel consumption, unstable engine operation, and problems starting the engine. In some cases, damage to internal engine components may occur.
• Often, if the Check Engine Light comes on immediately after starting the engine, the OBD-II system can be reset and the vehicle will continue to operate normally.

Why does a malfunction occur?

If the vehicle ECM detects a voltage in the throttle position sensor “A” circuit that is less than 0.2 volts, we can talk about error P0122. At the same time, it is stored in the vehicle’s memory. Code P0122 does not always mean one error, but several. Among the main reasons for the occurrence of error P0122 are the following.

1. Unreliable and weak throttle position (TPS) setting.
2. The appearance of short circuits in the circuit of sensor “A”, which is responsible for the throttle valve or accelerator pedals (TPS), in relation to ground or other wires.
3. Malfunction of the sensors that regulate the position of the throttle valve and “A”, which is responsible for the accelerator pedals (TPS).
4. The appearance of an open circuit in the sensor responsible for the throttle position, or poor quality power supply.
5. The appearance of breaks in the wiring harness of the sensor responsible for the throttle valve or shorts associated with ground or other wires.
6. There is damage in the computer (PCM).

What repairs can fix the P0101 code?

To resolve error P0101, you may need to:

• Check for the presence of the error code using a scan tool, clear the code from the computer's memory, and test drive the vehicle to see if the P0101 code appears again

If the error code appears again:

• Reconnecting, Repairing, or Replacing the Mass Air Flow Sensor Electrical Connector
• Repair or replacement of electrical wires related to the mass air flow sensor
• Replacing worn or damaged vacuum hoses

Additional comments for troubleshooting P0101

• Many high-mileage vehicles have short-term problems with sensors, which usually occur when the engine is started or the transmission is subjected to prolonged stress.
• Often, if the Check Engine Light comes on but the vehicle continues to operate normally, the OBD-II system can be reset and the problem will be resolved. This is why it is important to check for an error code using a scanner and clear the code from the computer's memory before performing any repair work.

Errors during diagnostics

In order to accurately determine the cause of the error and methods for eliminating it, diagnostics are carried out. It can be done with the help of a car mechanic or yourself if you have the proper experience. An OBD-2 scanner is used for operation. Common errors that occur when diagnosing a P0122 code include:

• sensor “A”, which is responsible for the throttle valve, connector and electrical wires, is not inspected;
• the scanner is not checked, the code is not cleared from the computer memory, the system is not re-checked before repair;
• sensor “A”, responsible for the correct position of the throttle valve, is not inspected properly;
• The voltage of sensors “A” and “B”, responsible for the throttle valve, is not checked before and after repair work.

What are the symptoms of a P0122 code?

• When this error appears, the Check Engine light will light up on the vehicle's dashboard. The ECM will put the engine into limp mode and stop current flowing to the throttle actuator. In this case, the opening angle of the throttle valve will be no more than 6 degrees.
• Problems may arise with the control of fuel injection and ignition timing.
• There may be a decrease in power as well as engine sensitivity to throttle opening.
• The engine may idle at higher speeds, but the vehicle will not accelerate as expected.

Note : Symptoms of this error may vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Diagnosis and problem solving

Carefully check the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS), wiring connector and wiring for opens, etc. Repair or replace as necessary to resolve P0122.

Check the voltage at the TPS (see your vehicle's service manual for more information). If the voltage is too low, this indicates a problem. Replace the sensor if necessary.

If recently replaced, the TPS may need to be adjusted. On some vehicles, installation instructions require proper adjustment (see repair manual for details).

If there are no symptoms, the problem may be intermittent and cleaning the code may temporarily resolve it. In this case, you should definitely check the wiring to make sure that it is not rubbing, worn out, etc.

Other trouble codes related to the TPS sensor and circuit: P0120, P0121, P0123, P0124.

We are looking for the causes of error P0011, ways to check the phase shifter, video

If the check light comes on and an error code P0011 is displayed, this indicates the presence of irregularities in the position of the camshaft. If such a problem occurs, the vehicle owner must immediately contact a service center for help. A camshaft position error indicates a problem in the system for changing gas distribution phases. They appear if the camshaft performs work with a significant advance. Let's take a closer look at this issue and try to figure out all the subtleties of this code error.

On which cars is this problem most common?

The problem with code P0122 can occur on different machines, but there are always statistics on which brands this error occurs more often. Here is a list of some of them:

• Chery
• Chevrolet (Chevrolet Aveo, Impala, Cruz, Lanos, Lacetti, Malibu, Silverado, Spark, Traverse)
• Chrysler
• Citroen (Citroen Berlingo)
• Daewoo (Daewoo Leganza, Matiz, Nexia)
• Dodge (Dodge Ram)
• Ford (Ford Galaxy, Mondeo, Transit, Focus)
• Geely
• Honda (Honda Accord, Jazz, Fit, Civic)
• Hover
• Hyundai (Hyundai Santa Fe, Solaris, Sonata)
• Jeep (Jeep Liberty)
• Kia (Kia Magentis, Rio, Sorento)
• Lifan (Lifan Solano)
• Mazda
• Mercedes
• Mitsubishi (Mitsubishi Colt, Lancer)
• Nissan
• Opel (Opel Astra)
• Peugeot (Peugeot 206, 307, 308, Partner)
• Skoda (Skoda Yeti, Fabia)
• Subaru
• Suzuki
• Toyota (Toyota Corolla)
• Volkswagen (Volkswagen Golf, Jetta, Crafter, Passat, Polo Sedan, Tiguan)
• VAZ 2107, 2109, 2110, 2112, 2114, 2115
• Gazelle Business, umz 4216
• Zaz Chance
• Lada Granta, Kalina, Niva, Priora
• UAZ Bukhanka, Patriot

With fault code P0122, you can sometimes encounter other errors. The most common ones are: P0102, P0108, P0113, P0118, P0222, P0223, P0300, P0335, P0341, P0343, P0452, P0463, P0719, P1122, P1381, P1403, P1961, P2135, C0242, U210 0.

Error P2135 dpdz

Along with this error, the ECU produces some others that reflect deviations from the norm in the operating parameters of the throttle valve and their sensors - P0120, 0122, 0123, 0220, 0223, 0222, 01578.

The test comes down to measuring the voltage of the sensor signal, as well as the resistance of the wires, especially the state of the ground pin of the electronic unit.

Possible reasons could be:

1. Poor condition of the “mass”. If necessary, clean, solder, eliminate breaks
2. Faulty relay. This problem can be solved by replacing the part (it is better to purchase a part from a European manufacturer with a current of 40 amperes)
3. Unsatisfactory condition of the sensor's electrical outputs. You can try bending them in the connector, this is often enough.
4. A short circuit is detected between VTA contacts 1 and 2. Voltage measurements in this zone show a deviation from the same 5V by more than 0.2V
5. Problems in the electromechanical throttle mechanism (EMDU). The malfunction is eliminated by replacing the device.

What are the effects of TPS malfunctions?

1. On the idle speed parameters. Injectors do not have a unified system for this stroke in the form in which we are accustomed to seeing it in carburetor engines. All parameters of this mode are calculated only from TPS readings. Unstable speed, interrupted engine operation.
2. Increased fuel consumption. The device sends a dubious signal, which is perceived by the ECU as a closed damper (although in reality it is open). Parameters are included that imply an increase in the proportion of fuel in the mixture. It turns out that the car operates as usual, with a stable shaft rotation speed, and consumes much more gasoline.
3. As you pick up speed, you feel dips and the car jerks noticeably.
4. When the position of the accelerator pedal remains unchanged, the car jerks, and when the pedal is suddenly released, the engine completely stalls.
5. The car does not pull, you feel a loss of power.

The Check Engine button turns on, indicating that the error has been detected.

How to Troubleshoot or Reset Trouble Code P0011

This DTC is the result of a mechanical failure of the VCT unit or related components. Therefore, there is no particular need for further electrical diagnosis of error P0011. To test the components of the VCT unit, you must refer to the specific vehicle repair manual.

You can also contact service, dealer technology has advanced tools and the ability to perform detailed troubleshooting steps. Including the ability to test components using a scanning tool.

Diagnosis and problem solving

Perform an electrical test on the phase sensor. Make sure there is no oxidation on the contacts and that there is power flowing through the wires.

Visual inspection of the phase sensor. The sensor must be removed and checked for chips, cracks and dirt. Which in most cases are formed due to irregular engine oil changes.

Check the VVT ​​valve of the gas distribution system. Set the multimeter to ohmmeter mode. Measure the resistance to ensure the winding is not damaged. The resistance should be in the range of 6.5-7.5 Ohms, then the winding is not damaged. The exact values ​​can be found in the technical manual for your specific vehicle model.

Measure to ensure that the valve receives 12 volts when the sensor is removed. This will ensure that the rod will move.

Diagnostics is also possible with the engine running. You need to remove the chip and apply power to two contacts from the battery. If the valve is working, the engine speed will drop and it will stall.