AutoCodesGeneric – P0102

P0102 Code - Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit Low Input

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
P0102 indicates Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit Low Input.
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 191,838
How popular is this code, among other codes? High
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on May 18, 2022
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Code P0102 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 that the MAF Sensor Signal is less than the factory specifications.

*Sensor design may vary for your model and year
OBDII Code P0102 - Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit Low Input - AutoCodes.com
P0102 Code - Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit Low Input

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0102?

  • 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 P0102?

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 P0102 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 P0102 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0102 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 P0102 Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0102 mean?

P0102 indicates that the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor is reporting a voltage or airflow reading that is lower than expected by the engine control module (ECM).

2. What are the common symptoms of P0102?

Symptoms include poor engine performance, rough idling, reduced fuel efficiency, difficulty starting, and, in some cases, stalling.

3. What causes the P0102 code to appear?

P0102 can be caused by a dirty or faulty MAF sensor, air intake leaks, damaged sensor wiring, a clogged air filter, or a malfunctioning ECM.

4. Can a dirty air filter trigger the P0102 code?

Yes, a dirty or clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the MAF sensor, causing it to send a low signal to the ECM.

5. How can I fix the P0102 code?

Start by inspecting and cleaning the MAF sensor, replacing a clogged air filter, checking for intake leaks, and ensuring the sensor's wiring and connectors are intact.

6. Is it safe to drive with a P0102 code?

While it may be safe to drive for short distances, the engine may perform poorly, and extended driving with this issue can lead to further damage or reduced fuel efficiency.

7. How do I clean a MAF sensor to resolve P0102?

Use a dedicated MAF sensor cleaner, remove the sensor carefully, spray it with the cleaner, let it dry completely, and reinstall it.

8. Can a vacuum leak cause the P0102 code?

Yes, vacuum or air intake leaks can disrupt the airflow measurement, leading to a low input signal from the MAF sensor.

9. Will replacing the MAF sensor always fix the P0102 code?

Not always. The issue could also stem from wiring problems, intake leaks, or other related components, so proper diagnosis is essential.

10. How much does it typically cost to fix a P0102 code?

The repair cost depends on the cause. Cleaning the MAF sensor or replacing an air filter is inexpensive, while replacing the sensor or fixing wiring could cost $100–$400 or more.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0102 OBDII Code

  • hi replaced the mass air flow sensor $144 still have same fault low voltage input vivaro can anyone help

  • What make, model and year is your vehicle?

    If the MAF is OK, then the next thing to check is for intake leaks.

  • pls Auto help me with this code P0102 KIA Jeep 2000 or 2003 and I starting the Kai Engine and I remove the maf sensor wires the Engine is not stop running hope the maf sensor is Okay

  • Could you please tell exactly what model and year is? I need to check the service manual. Usually the problem is the MAF

  • 2002 Kia, but what model? Jeep is another brand and not a Kia model.

  • 2003 KIA Sorento, for the code P0102 the problem is the MAF, if is not the MAF then the Engine Control Module (ECM)

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