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Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
Correlation between Mass or Volume Air Flow Sensor A/B
What does that signify?
This generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is typically applicable to OBD-II equipped vehicles that have multiple air intakes or multiple throttle bodies. The vehicles may include but are not limited to Lexus, Peugeot, Citroen, VW, Toyota, Audi, Dodge, Ram, Mercedes Benz, GMC, Chevrolet, etc.
When you come across a stored code P010F, it means that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a malfunction with the mass air flow (MAF) or volume air flow (VAF) system.
The use of code P010F is limited to vehicles that are equipped with multiple throttle bodies or intake air inlet sources that require multiple MAF/VAF sensors. A P010F pertains to a comparison between the separate MAF/VAF sensors.
A strong vacuum is created when the internal combustion engine is in operation. This vacuum draws in the necessary air to complete the combustion process. The throttle plate (controlled by the driver) regulates this air under acceleration, while the idle air control (IAC) valve regulates it when the engine is at idle.
One of the most crucial factors in optimizing fuel efficiency and minimizing harmful exhaust emissions in mass-produced automobiles is achieving the correct fuel-to-air ratio. The MAF or VAF sensor/s measure the air entering the intake. The PCM calculates the fuel delivery and ignition timing strategy using data derived from the MAF/VAF sensor/s. The air that passes through these devices is referred to as metered air. Air that is involuntarily introduced to the engine can contribute to excessively lean (too much air or not enough fuel) conditions and is called unmetered air.
Here is an example of a MAF sensor:
Here is a brief explanation of the two types of air metering devices
The MAF sensor is most commonly used in domestic vehicles. It focuses on a thermal resistor that is suspended in the bore of the sensor so that air can flow directly across it. Hot wire type MAF sensors use voltage applied directly to a single resistor to monitor intake air. As air flow increases, the temperature of the resistor decreases and the resistance level drops. These changes in resistance level result in variations of circuit voltage which the PCM receives as the degree of metered air being introduced to the engine intake for precise distribution to individual combustion chambers.
Cold wire MAF sensors use a similar system of metering intake air but utilize a pair of thermal resistors. One is positioned in a recessed area of the sensor housing and measures ambient air temperature only. The second is positioned near the center of the bore where incoming air can flow across it, in varied degrees. The PCM compares the thermal voltage values of each of these resistors to determine how much metered air is being drawn into the intake.
The VAF is designed with a door or flap that is opened according to how much air is drawn into the intake. It is primarily used in imported vehicles. As intake air decreases, the spring-loaded flap is closed. The action of the door/flap actuates a potentiometer that transmits a data signal to the PCM. The PCM recognizes variations in potentiometer voltage as the degree of metered air being drawn into the engine and calculates engine drivability strategy accordingly.
When multiple MAF/VAF sensors are used in conjunction with each other, the PCM compares data between the two to ensure a similar conclusion is derived. If the degree of air flow or sensor voltage varies by more than a preprogrammed amount, a code P010F will be stored and a malfunction indicator lamp may be illuminated.
Code Severity & Symptoms
The likelihood of major drivability and fuel efficiency issues accompanying a code P010F is high, therefore it should be addressed with a certain degree of urgency.
Symptoms of a P010F trouble code may include:
Causes Of This DTC Code
Possible causes for this code may include:
Diagnostic and Repair Procedures
A diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable vehicle information source will be required to diagnose a code P010F.
Begin with a careful visual inspection of MAF/VAF wiring and connectors.
Connect the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic port and retrieve all stored codes and freeze frame data. Make a record of this information as it will prove helpful if this proves to be an intermittent code. Now clear the codes and test-drive the vehicle (if possible) to see if the code is reset.
Often, the heated element in MAF sensors becomes contaminated with dust and other debris, causing a false data signal that could result in a stored code P010F. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning the sensor element will rectify the situation in many cases. This is only applicable to vehicles equipped with MAF sensors (not VAF).
If the code is immediately reset, use your DVOM and the vehicle information source to test the voltage and ground signals to the sensor, the sensor itself, and sensor circuits. Follow the vehicle code flow charts until a solution is reached.
Additional diagnostic notes
Professional Service
While we always recommend addressing this issue mechanically, if for some reason that seems impossible, we have the option to permanently delete this specific DTC. We will continue to work on all other codes. If you want this, please upload your ECU file to our portal.
