The P0102 code is an OBD-II trouble code that stands for “Mass or Volume Air Flow A Circuit Low” and is triggered when the engine control module (ECM) or powertrain control module (PCM) identifies a problem with the performance of the mass airflow (MAF) sensor.
In this article, I will be talking about the P0102 trouble code, its symptoms, causes, and how to fix it.
- What Does The P0102 Code Mean?
- Which Models Are Affected By The P0102 Code
- What Are The Possible Causes of the P0102 Code?
- What Are The Common Symptoms of The P0102 Code?
- Is It Safe To Drive With a P0102 Code?
- How To Diagnose The P0102 Code
- Most Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P0102 Code
- How Much Does It Cost To Repair P0102 Code?
- What Repairs Can Fix The P0102 Code?
- How To Fix The P0102 Code
- In Conclusion
P0102 OBD-II Mass or Volume Air Flow A Circuit Low Trouble Code
What Does The P0102 Code Mean?
The P0102 trouble code means that the powertrain control module (PCM) of the vehicle has concluded that the incoming signal from the mass air flow sensor is below the lower threshold of its working range. As a result, the PCM has consequently judged that these data are illogical.
To comprehend the importance of code P0102, one must first comprehend what a mass airflow (MAF) sensor is and how it functions. A mass air flow sensor measures the volume of air passing through the intake tract of an engine at any given time.
This information is relayed in real-time to a vehicle’s PCM, which utilizes it to compute the correct amount of fuel to give in order to maximize combustion.
Without reasonable input from the engine’s mass air flow sensor, the PCM cannot precisely and optimally measure fuel supply.
When a vehicle stores a P0102 trouble code, the PCM has concluded that the mass air flow sensor’s incoming data is invalid and below the unit’s normal voltage threshold.
P0102 OBD-II Mass or Volume Air Flow A Circuit Low Trouble Code
Which Models Are Affected By The P0102 Code
| Make | Affected By P0102 Code |
|---|---|
| Toyota | Yes |
| Nissan | Yes |
| Chevrolet | Yes |
| BMW | Yes |
| Audi | Yes |
| Buick | Yes |
| Mercedes | Yes |
| GMC | Yes |
| Suzuki | Yes |
| Tata | Yes |
| Lexus | Yes |
| Mazda | Yes |
| Mitsubishi | Yes |
| Kia | Yes |
| Jeep | Yes |
| Fiat | Yes |
| Honda | Yes |
| Hyundai | Yes |
| Opel | Yes |
| Ford | Yes |
| Fiat | Yes |
| Peugeot | Yes |
What Are The Possible Causes of the P0102 Code?
An active P0102 code may be caused by a variety of underlying issues. The most prevalent of them are listed below.
- Faulty or damaged Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor.
- Dirty air filter.
- The Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor circuit wiring or connectors are corroded or damaged.
- Carbon-covered MAF sensor displays.
- The leaks from the vacuum.
- Faulty PCM or ECM.
P0102 OBD-II Mass or Volume Air Flow A Circuit Low Trouble Code
What Are The Common Symptoms of The P0102 Code?
In many instances, additional symptoms will manifest in conjunction with a P0102 diagnostic issue code. Although these extra symptoms are not present in every case, they are common enough to demand the attention of drivers.
These are the most frequent symptoms linked with code P0102.
- The check engine light
- Decreased engine power
- Increased fuel consumption
- The engine has a rough starting
- Black smoke from the exhaust
- Engine stalling
Is It Safe To Drive With a P0102 Code?
Technically, you may still be able to drive with a P0102 code, but you should not do so for too long.
Although code P0102 is not suggestive of serious problems, it is urged that any underlying cause be repaired without delay. When your vehicle has a problem with the MAF sensor, fuel economy might be negatively impacted, resulting in higher costs at the pump.
Also, some motorists may face a variety of drivability concerns when their car displays a P0102 error code.
This problem has been known to cause engine stalling and difficult starting, resulting in unreliable vehicle performance. It is often advisable to handle such concerns before the symptoms worsen and leave you stranded.
P0102 OBD-II Mass or Volume Air Flow A Circuit Low Trouble Code
How To Diagnose The P0102 Code
Here is how to diagnose the P0102 trouble code:
- Use a scan tool to check if you have another active trouble code like misfire codes or 02 sensor codes.
- Eliminate all trouble codes from the system.
- Take the car for a test drive and observe what trouble codes are generated.
- Read the updated codes to obtain freeze frame information.
- Measure the MAF sensor’s voltage and ground. Examine the MAF sensor wiring to determine whether anything is visibly damaged. Repair the wiring if the ECU outputs a low voltage or bad ground.
- If you observe any dirt or corrosion on the MAF sensor head, you can carefully remove it with a MAF cleaner.
- Check for air leaks throughout the system.
- Examine the air filter. If it is unclean, it should be replaced.
- Using real-time data, check for vacuum leaks.
- If no additional issues have been identified, proceed to replace the MAF sensor.
P0102 OBD-II Mass or Volume Air Flow A Circuit Low Trouble Code
Most Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P0102 Code
The most common mistake is replacing the MAF sensor without first verifying if it is the source of the problem. While the code indicates a problem with the MAF sensor, the sensor may be reading incorrectly due to other causes.
It is also possible that the MAF sensor requires a simple cleaning. If it is dirty or corroded, a simple cleaning should be sufficient.
To clean the MAF sensor, remove it and clean the sensor head with an electrical cleaner or a MAF sensor-specific cleaner before allowing it to dry. This element is extremely delicate and easily damaged, so handle it with care and avoid touching it!
How Much Does It Cost To Repair P0102 Code?
If you intend to have the parts replaced by a shop, you will need to pay for both the parts and the work. These are some estimations for the cost of the repairs.
- Cleaning the dirty mass airflow (MAF) sensor: $10-$75
- MAF sensor replacement: $250-$400
- Repairing the electrical short or wiring harness: $50-$500
- Repairing the intake air leak: $100-$650
- Air filter replacement: $15-$85
| Make | P0102 Code | Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota | Yes | $10 – $650 |
| Nissan | Yes | $10 – $650 |
| Chevrolet | Yes | $10 – $650 |
| BMW | Yes | $10 – $650 |
| Audi | Yes | $10 – $650 |
| Buick | Yes | $10 – $650 |
| Mercedes | Yes | $10 – $650 |
| GMC | Yes | $10 – $650 |
| Suzuki | Yes | $10 – $650 |
| Tata | Yes | $10 – $650 |
| Lexus | Yes | $10 – $650 |
| Mazda | Yes | $10 – $650 |
| Mitsubishi | Yes | $10 – $650 |
| Kia | Yes | $10 – $650 |
| Jeep | Yes | $10 – $650 |
| Fiat | Yes | $10 – $650 |
| Honda | Yes | $10 – $650 |
| Hyundai | Yes | $10 – $650 |
| Opel | Yes | $10 – $650 |
| Ford | Yes | $10 – $650 |
| Fiat | Yes | $10 – $650 |
| Peugeot | Yes | $10 – $650 |
What Repairs Can Fix The P0102 Code?
The most frequent repairs that can fix the P0102 trouble code are:
- Clean the dirty mass airflow (MAF) sensor.
- Replace the faulty or damaged MAF sensor.
- Repairing the low voltage, electrical short, or wiring harness.
- Replace the dirty air filter.
- Clean the MAF sensor connectors.
- Repair the leaks from the vacuum.
- Change the faulty PCM or ECM.
P0102 OBD-II Mass or Volume Air Flow A Circuit Low Trouble Code
How To Fix The P0102 Code
Here is how to fix the P0102 trouble code:
- Check the code using a scanner. Reset the trouble codes and perform a road test under regular driving conditions.
- If the P0102 code returns, it is essential to execute the test method.
- Check the electrical connector to the MAF to ensure that it is properly installed. To ensure a new electrical connection and eliminate any corrosion on the contacts, detach and reinstall the component.
- Examine the connector carefully for frayed, damaged, or broken wiring. Restore or replace as required.
- Especially on older vehicles, inspect the intake manifold hose and fittings for vacuum leaks.
In Conclusion
As I said before the P0102 trouble code usually pops up when there is some issue with the mass airflow (MAF) sensor.
If you have an OBD-II scanner and can confirm the P0102 code, you should take your car to a mechanic so the professional can determine the source of the problem. Occasionally, the issue can be rectified by verifying the codes, clearing them, and restarting the car.
If the code is a one-time anomaly (which is possible), you can proceed. Still, got a problem code? Bring it to a mechanic. You can troubleshoot the cause(s) yourself, but due to their knowledge and experience, an expert can address the issue much more quickly.