Air Flow Meter/Sensor: Testing and Inspection

This hot film type air flow sensor is composed of a hot film sensor, housing, metering duct (hybrid, sensor element).

Mass air flow rate is measured by detection of heat transfer from a hot film probe because the change of the mass air flow rate causes change in the amount of heat being transferred from the hot film probe surface to the air flow. The air flow sensor generates a pulse so it repeatedly opens and closes between the 5 V voltage supplied from the engine control module. This results in the change of the temperature of the hat film probe and in the change of resistance.

Circuit Diagram:

Harness Inspection Procedures (Step 1- 4):

Troubleshooting Procedures:

TROUBLESHOOTING HINTS
1. If the engine stalls occasionally, start the engine and shake the MAF sensor harness. If the engine stalls, check for poor contact at the MAF sensor connector.
2. If the MAF sensor output voltage is other than 0 when the ignition switch is turned on (do not start the engine). Check for the faulty MAF sensor or ECM.

3. If the engine can be idle even if the MAF sensor output voltage is out of specification, check for the following conditions:
- Disturbed air flow in the MAF sensor, disconnected air duct, and clogged air cleaner filter.
- Poor combustion in the cylinder, faulty ignition plug, ignition coil, injector, and incorrect comparison.

4. Though no MAF sensor malfunction occurs, check the mounting direction of MAF sensor.

Using Voltmeter:

NOTE:
1. When the vehicle is new [within initial operation of about 500 km (300 miles)], the mass air flow sensor air quantity will be about 10 % higher.
2. Use an accurate digital voltmeter.
3. Before checking, warm up the engine until the engine coolant temperature reaches 80 to 90 °C (176 to 198 °F).