AutoCodesGeneric – P0104

P0104 Code - Mass Or Volume Air Flow Circuit Intermittent

Quick Answer

The Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor is placed in the stream of the intake air. Common causes include Dirty Air Filter, Dirty Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor, Intake air leaks. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P0104 indicates Mass Or Volume Air Flow Circuit Intermittent.
Common causes
Common causes include Dirty Air Filter, Dirty Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor, Intake air leaks.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
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Code Popularity 220,293
How popular is this code, among other codes? High
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on May 19, 2022
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Code P0104 Description

The Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor is placed in the stream of the intake air. It measures the intake flow rate by measuring a part of the entire intake flow. It consists of a hot film that is supplied with electric current from the Engine Control Module (ECM). The ECM controls the temperature of the hot film by a certain amount. The heat generated by the hot film is reduced as the intake air flows around it. The more air, the greater the heat loss. Therefore, the ECM must supply more electric current to maintain the temperature of the hot film as air flow increases. The ECM detects the air flow by means of this current change. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects an MAF Sensor signal that is outside the calibrated level.
OBDII Code P0104 - Mass Or Volume Air Flow Circuit Intermittent - AutoCodes.com
P0104 Code - Mass Or Volume Air Flow Circuit Intermittent

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0104?

  • Dirty Air Filter
  • Dirty Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor
  • Intake air leaks
  • Faulty Mass Air Flow Sensor
  • Mass Air Flow Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Mass Air Flow Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0104?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0104 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0104 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0104 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0104 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0104 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0104 (Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit Intermittent)?

- Common symptoms include rough idling, poor acceleration, stalling, and decreased fuel efficiency.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0104?

- Possible causes include a faulty mass air flow (MAF) sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a clogged air filter, or a vacuum leak.

3. How can I diagnose the issue related to OBDII code P0104?

- You can diagnose the issue by checking the MAF sensor's wiring and connections, inspecting the air filter, testing for vacuum leaks, and using a scan tool to monitor MAF sensor data.

4. Can a dirty air filter trigger OBDII code P0104?

- Yes, a clogged or dirty air filter can disrupt the airflow readings to the MAF sensor, potentially causing code P0104 to trigger.

5. What is the typical repair for OBDII code P0104?

- The typical repair involves cleaning or replacing the MAF sensor, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, replacing the air filter, and fixing any vacuum leaks.

6. Can I drive my vehicle with OBDII code P0104 present?

- It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with code P0104 present, as it can lead to poor performance and potential long-term damage to the engine.

7. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P0104?

- The cost of repairing code P0104 can vary depending on the extent of the issue and the specific repairs needed, but it generally ranges from $100 to $500.

8. Will resetting the OBDII code P0104 make it go away permanently?

- Resetting the code may temporarily clear it, but if the underlying issue causing code P0104 is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code P0104 at home?

- Depending on their skill level and access to tools, a DIY enthusiast may be able to address the issue causing code P0104, such as cleaning the MAF sensor or replacing the air filter.

10. How long does it take to repair OBDII code P0104?

- The repair time for code P0104 can vary based on the specific cause and the complexity of the repair, but it typically takes a few hours to complete.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0104 OBDII Code

  • I'm having a P0104 error code, but there's no MAF sensor in my car (Focus mk2). There is a MAP sensor in it, but that should have another error code. Any idea how this is possible ?

  • Are you sure you don't have one?

    Nothing like this one? #3 on the image is the MAF

    Image

    Click here to enlarge image

  • 100% sure. There is a T-MAP sensor closer to the engine, but that should have specific trouble codes I think

    Any idea ? This is driving me crazy :)

  • No idea. As far as I know, all the vehicle I know have a Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor. What year is your vehicle, and engine size?

  • It's a 2010 ford focus 1.4 gasoline

    Did some research on it, and it achieves the same with the T-MAP sensor in combination with Siemens Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

  • Unfortunately, I don't have the factory service manual for that model, only have the manual for the Focus with 2.0 engine.

  • Thanks for checking.

    No symptoms though, just hate the error light

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