A dirty or malfunctioning mass airflow sensor, also called an MAF sensor, can cause all kinds of engine performance problems. This is because the MAF sensor reports data regarding how much air flows into the engine to the engine control unit (also called the ECU). Central Auto Care advises that the ECU uses this data to ensure the air and fuel in the combustion chamber are in the right proportions. If the MAF sensor is bad, the data it’s providing is bad, too, and you’ll notice the following problems.
1. Check Engine Light Warning
One of the first things that will happen is your check engine light will come on. This is because the malfunctioning MAF sensor has sent an error to the ECU. Once the ECU receives the error, it turns on the check engine light so you know that you’ve got a problem underneath the hood.
2. Acceleration Problems
You may also notice a lag in your acceleration. You will press down on the accelerator and your vehicle will hiccup and struggle to pick up speed. This is because the failing mass airflow sensor has tricked – if you will – the ECU into thinking the combustion chamber needs more air.
3. Idling Problems
When there is too much air in the combustion chamber, your vehicle will struggle to keep running when you are sitting at an idle. This is because the excess air is starving the engine of much-needed fuel. Consequently, you will feel and hear your engine idling roughly.
4. Fuel Economy Reduction
Sometimes, the MAF sensor can trick the ECU into putting too much fuel into the chamber. When this happens, the engine will burn away the excess fuel and you will notice a difference in your automobile’s fuel economy. This can be tough on your budget.
5. Excess Black Exhaust
Another sign the faulty MAF sensor has convinced the ECU you need more fuel in the combustion chamber is black exhaust. When the engine burns through the fuel, it produces black exhaust that will flow out of your tailpipe.
6. Sputtering or Surging
Finally, too much air or fuel can affect your engine’s performance. If there is too much air in the chamber, your engine will sputter and struggle to produce the speeds you are requesting from the accelerator. Too much fuel will cause the engine to surge and pick up speed.
Look no further than Central Auto Care in Okotoks, AB, for all of your automotive service needs including the mass airflow sensor. We can replace your malfunctioning MAF sensor.