How To Deal With Your Volkswagen's Mass Airflow Sensor Failure
The MAF or Mass airflow sensor in your Volkswagen is a very important component needed for the proper operation of your car’s engine. The MAF sensor quantifies the flow rate and air density of the air that is drawn into the engine. This information is taken to the engine control unit, or ECU as it is commonly referred to, and the fuel injection is modified to suit the combustion process.
However, a bad MAF sensor can interfere with this balance and cause a number of issues with the engine. Here are some steps that will help you handle Volkswagen MAF failure.
How Sensor Failure is Diagnosed
Visual Inspection
The MAF sensor is commonly placed somewhere between the air filter and the throttle body of a car. If you want to know its exact location check your owner’s manual. Ensure that the sensor is in good condition and all the cables connected to it are not damaged in any way by cracks, loose connections, or rusting.
Clean the Sensor
To do this, gently take off the MAF sensor from the housing. It is delicate; therefore, be careful not to damage it. Take an MAF sensor cleaner and spray it on the sensor. Do not apply a regular carburetor or brake cleaner as it will harm the sensor. After cleaning the sensor it is allowed to air dry and once dried, it is then reinstalled back into your VW.
Check for Error Codes
Connect an OBD-II scanner to the diagnostic port in your VW to look for code. You might come across a code that is associated with the MAF sensor but for you to be certain or to interpret the code you need to check the manual or you can search on the internet to get their meaning.
Test the Sensor
You can also check the electrical output of the sensor if you have a multimeter with you. Check your VW manual to determine the correct voltage and compare it to the readings that you get. If the readings are outside the specified range the sensor may be faulty and need a replacement.
Cleaning or Replacing the MAF Sensor
Cleaning the MAF Sensor
When you find that the sensor is not working well, it might just be that it is dusty. Sometimes, washing it is enough to solve the problem. To clean the sensor, you have to first take it out of its housing. An MAF sensor cleaner spray, which is only intended for this purpose, should be used to clean the sensor. Do not use abrasive chemicals on the surface or allow it to come in contact with the sensor wires as they are very sensitive. It is recommended to clean the sensor and then wait for it to dry before reassembling it back. This method is cheap and if the issues were due to dirt and debris on the sensor, then the sensor is likely to be working again.
Replacing the MAF Sensor
If cleaning the sensor does not help or if the sensor is bad, then replacement is required. Get a new MAF sensor for your specific Volkswagen model. To replace the sensor, disconnect the wires connected to the sensor and then unscrew the sensor off the car. Reverse the steps to install the new sensor and make sure that all the connections are properly made. Cleaning is cheaper than replacing the MAF sensor although the latter may be more effective if the old one was faulty.
Seek Professional Assistance
In either of the processes, if you have cleaned or replaced the MAF sensor, then you may be required to turn off the ECU to erase the checked codes and reprogram the new MAF sensor, which cannot be done by a DIYer. It is best to allow a professional mechanic to take care of your Volkswagen MAF sensor repairs.
Trust The Mechanics At M Service Inc With Your Volkswagen Repairs
If you are seeking an auto workshop that is attentive, friendly, and competent in handling European cars in Walnut Creek, CA then M Service is the place to go. We have been serving the drivers in the area since 1984, and our ASE-certified mechanics are able to address any problems your Volkswagen may have.
If you see any indications that your MAF sensor is not functioning properly or for any other matter you require service, you can count on us. Call us at (925) 357-9929, or come to our shop and see for yourself how we can help get your VW to its best performance yet.