The mass air flow sensor (MAF) is an integral component of your vehicle’s electronic fuel injection system. It is usually located between your engine’s intake manifold and air filter. In some car makes and models, mass air flow sensors also contain the intake air temperature sensor (IAT). Your car has different types of sensors, each with their own maintenance requirements. Digital sensors that send frequencies while analog mass air flow sensors produce a variable voltage output. Both sensors are crucial in regulating the air-fuel mixture in your vehicle’s automatic transmission system.
Why is the Mass Air Flow Sensor Important?
As the name implies, the mass air flow sensor measures the air mass flowing into the engine intake. Accurate measurement of mass flow is critical to ensure that your vehicle achieves the right air-fuel ratio (AFR). In most cases, the ideal AFR is 14.7:1. This means 14.7 lb. air should be flowing into the engine intake for every 1 lb. of petrol. For acceleration to happen, a vehicle’s AFR should be at 12:1, while smooth cruising will require AFR at 22:1.
A mass air flow sensor working improperly makes it nearly impossible for your vehicle’s engine control module to accurately measure fuel injection resulting in a myriad of issues.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Mass Air Flow Sensor Failure?
Black Exhaust Smoke
The production of black smoke has always been a sign of bad news. Of course, there are other possible causes for black smoke. In case of mass air flow sensor failure, its inability to measure proper fuel injection makes itself known in the form of black smoke.
Car Jerking and Hesitation
If you are sensing hesitation or sudden episodes of increased power, this can be due to problems directly caused by a failure within your mass air flow sensor. The hesitation or jerking movements typically occur when you’re speeding up on the highway on-ramp or cruising at standard speed. To prevent accidents on the road, it is essential that you bring your vehicle to a car mechanic to resolve mass air flow sensor issues as soon as possible.
Check Engine Light
If your check engine light is continually lit-up, mass air flow sensor issue is a potential causative factor. A local Sydney auto mechanic will help determine whether your vehicle is dealing with mass air flow sensor failure or some other issue.
Code B1479
Like any other vehicle component, your mass air flow sensor will experience wear and tear over time. As it is continuously exposed to moving air, debris, dust, and other pollutants, the mass air flow sensor is more likely prone to technical failure. The accumulation of dirt and dust can trigger its ultimate failure. Toyota makes and models are notoriously prone to mass air flow sensor failure as they are usually installed into the compressor. Car mechanics in Sydney can easily tell whether your vehicle is suffering from this flow sensor issue or otherwise.
Lean Idling
If your vehicle is having a hard time generating power or automatically stops from time to time, chances are, the mass air flow sensor is receiving too much air and less petrol. Your combustion process is compromised and results in the accumulation of wires within the mass air flow sensor. When this happens, you must obtain expert diagnosis and repair from a trusted mechanic in Sydney.
Poor Fuel Economy
If your car starts consuming more petrol than usual, it is crucial to have your mass air flow sensor checked immediately. A malfunctioning sensor sends the wrong signals to the powertrain control module, which in turn can trigger your engine to burn through petrol at a faster rate.
Rough Running
When your mass air flow sensor fails to transmit a signal, your car’s powertrain control module will be seriously compromised. This can lead to more problems arising from your vehicle’s transmission, engine, and other systems. If your vehicle fails to determine the amount of petrol your engine needs, you will end up running too lean or too rich on petrol. The resulting incomplete combustion may trigger rough engine running or misfiring.
Trouble Starting your Car
If you are finding it challenging to start the car or getting the engine to turn over, your vehicle may be suffering from an imbalance of air -fuel ratio. Newer vehicles are highly sensitive to changes in the air-fuel ratio. You will need the expertise of a skilled auto mechanic to resolve the issue without causing too much disruption to your schedule.
If you suspect a faulty mass air flow sensor, HP Automotive is the company you can trust. We have a team of auto mechanics with extensive experience in the automotive repair and maintenance industry. We are committed to providing top-notch services to private individuals and commercial property owners in Sydney. To schedule an appointment or request for enquiries, call +61 2 9979 8372 today.