What it means
MAF sensor A and B disagree beyond plausible deviation. One is reading incorrectly.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
Mass air flow sensors A and B measure airflow through separate paths or banks on vehicles fitted with two sensors. The module compares their readings under operating conditions and sets P010F when the signals disagree more than expected, pointing to a sensor, wiring, or airflow problem affecting one side.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- One mass air flow sensor contaminated or failing
- Air leak or restriction affecting one sensor's airflow reading
- Damaged wiring or poor connector contact at one sensor
Symptoms
- Check-engine light on
- Rough idle or hesitation
- Reduced engine power or poor fuel economy
How to diagnose it
- Review freeze-frame data and compare live MAF A and MAF B readings at the recorded engine speed and load to see which signal differs.
- Inspect both sensor connectors and harnesses, paying particular attention to loose or corroded connections on the side with the unusual reading.
- Check the intake paths measured by A and B for leaks, loose ducting, or restrictions that could make their airflow readings differ.
- Inspect the sensor elements for contamination and follow the manufacturer's guidance before cleaning either one.
- Test each sensor's circuit and compare its output with the manufacturer's specification to identify the side causing the correlation fault.
Common fixes
- Reconnect a loose MAF connector and repair corroded terminals on the affected side.
- Correct an intake leak, loose duct, or restriction affecting one sensor's airflow path.
- Clean a contaminated sensor using only an approved method.
- Repair damaged wiring at the sensor whose reading differs.
- Replace the sensor shown by testing to be outside specification.
Can I keep driving?
If power and drivability are normal, restrict driving to necessary trips and avoid hard acceleration. If the engine hesitates or loses power, avoid busy or high-speed roads; one airflow path may be mismeasured, affecting fueling and emissions.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.