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What is a Mass Air Flow Sensor?

Model: (Various brands) Various
Part: MAF sensor

What is a mass air flow sensor (also known as "air flow meter" or "MAF sensor")? It is a sensor that measures the amount of air drawn into the engine. It is located in the intake duct, between the air filter and the engine. The most common type is the "hot wire" type: the ECU heats a small wire (or film) inside the sensor to 120°C. When air passes through, it cools this wire. The ECU measures how much current is needed to bring it back to 120°C: more air passing through requires more current. This way, the ECU knows exactly how much air is entering and can calculate the correct amount of fuel to inject (the so-called "stoichiometric ratio"). You can clean it yourself by disconnecting the electrical connector, removing the securing ties, and spraying a specific electronic contact cleaner on the sensitive part. Allow it to dry and reassemble. When it is not functioning properly, the car accelerates unevenly and loses torque and power.

Posted on 16 March 2026 by ScegliAuto

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Cleaning the Mass Air Flow Sensor
Cleaning the Mass Air Flow Sensor
(Various brands) Various In this video, you will learn how to clean the mass air flow sensor. First, open the engine bay and locate the mass air flow sensor, usually found ne…
Replacing the Mass Air Flow Sensor in Your Car
Replacing the Mass Air Flow Sensor in Your Car
(Various brands) Various Let’s see how to replace the mass air flow sensor in your car. Lift the bonnet and secure it, then use a screwdriver to unscrew the locking bolts of …
How to Test if the Mass Air Flow Sensor is Damaged or Dirty
How to Test if the Mass Air Flow Sensor is Damaged or Dirty
(Various brands) Various In this video, we can see a simple procedure to diagnose the functionality of the mass air flow sensor. Symptoms of a faulty sensor include: engine l…

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