Because of wear and tear, it is only natural for your car’s mass air flow sensor to degrade over time.
In extreme circumstances, a malfunctioning sensor can make you go slower, utilize less gasoline, and result in accidents.
That’s why it is essential to know how to reset the mass air flow sensor in your car after replacing it with a new one.
Steps On How To Reset Mass Air Flow Sensor
You need to reset your car’s mass air flow sensor after you replace the damaged part with a new one.
We’ll walk you through five different methods to reset the mass air flow sensor of your car, so you’ll know what to do if you ever run across this problem.
Method 1: By Idling The Engine
Step 1: Start the engine and let it reach the ideal temperature by letting it warm up normally. Then turn it off.
Step 2: Disconnect the mass air flow sensor’s main connection from its harness.
Step 3: Start the car’s engine once more, then move on to the following step after letting it idle. Make sure to let the engine idle for at least 5-7 seconds.
Step 4: Turn off the engine again. Then, connect the mass air flow sensor back to its harness.
Step 5: Check to verify if the DTC PO102 is active in your car.
Step 6: Finish off by erasing the DTC memory from your car’s computer.
Method 2: Paperclip Method
You can do this method on your own. You can reset the mass air flow sensor of your car by simply inserting a paperclip into the reset port. Here is how to do it:
Step 1: Locate the reset port. It would be beneficial if you initially peered inside the engine before checking behind the hood.
Step 2: Plug the paperclip in and twist it to the right.
Step 3: Start the vehicle and watch which direction it is traveling.
It might be necessary to take it to a mechanic if this method doesn’t work. But if it does, it means you successfully reset the mass air flow sensor.
Method 3: By Disconnecting It From The Battery
Step 1: Detach the battery from the ground connection and then attach the new sensor to its wiring.
Step 2: Let it be disconnected for 10 minutes.
Step 3: The reset is now complete. Connect the mass air flow sensor, and then switch on the vehicle.
Method 4: By Making Use Of A Long Screwdriver
Your car’s mass air flow sensors are located in an easily reachable location, but some are harder to get to than others
If you’re having problems reaching it with your hand, try using a long screwdriver.
Step 1: Find the reset button of your MAF sensor.
Step 2: Use a long screwdriver to push the button.
Step 3: Take out the screwdriver and reset the sensor after the button finally releases.
If this doesn’t work, consider getting your sensor examined by a professional.
Method 5: By Disconnecting The Fuel Injector
Disconnecting all associated fuel injectors is another way to reset the mass air flow sensor.
Removing the injectors will clear the area around the sensor in the car of any debris accumulation that would have caused an issue when resetting the mass air flow sensor.
Here are the steps to do it:
Step 1: Locate your vehicle’s gas tank.
Step 2: Check all the fuel injectors connected to it.
Step 3: Detach each fuel sensor from the tank, turn each one off, and then turn it back on.
The complete process will take no longer than 10 minutes, so be careful when disconnecting to properly reset the sensor.
What Are The Signs That You Need To Reset The MAF Sensor?
Your mass air flow sensor could degrade and become more likely to malfunction with time.
This is because the air in your sensor is continually moving and contaminated with dust, debris, and exhaust fumes.
Consequently, the following are some of the symptoms of a damaged mass air flow sensor:
Illuminated Check Engine Light
This is the most typical indication of mass air flow sensor failure.
If the light comes on, regardless of any additional indications of a problem, you should have your car examined by a nearby mechanic.
The Car Is Jerking
Another indication of mass air flow sensor issues is unexpected hesitancy or rapid, anomalous jolts of power experienced by your car.
This might occur while you accelerate onto a freeway or go at a moderate speed down a street.
This is a very risky way to drive; therefore, you should have a professional vehicle mechanic check it right away.
Engine Produces Black Exhaust Smoke
If your car is emitting a lot of exhaust smoke, there may be an issue with the mass air flow sensor.
Black smoke would arise from an incorrect fuel injection calculation made by the engine control model due to a broken mass air flow sensor.
Low Fuel Efficiency
If you’ve observed that your vehicle is suddenly using more fuel than usual, there may be a significant problem with your sensor.
The powertrain control module (PCM) may receive false data from a faulty mass air flow sensor, which could result in the vehicle using gasoline much more quickly than it should.
Check Engine Light? Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) Circuit: Code P0102
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Tell If The Mass Air Flow Sensor Is Working After The Reset
Your car’s engine should be operating effectively and not overheating if your mass air flow sensor is functioning properly after the reset.
If the situation is different, you might anticipate the opposite.
Is It Safe To Drive Without A Mass Air Flow Sensor?
Yes, it is safe. There will be no problem driving your car for about a week or two without a mass air flow sensor.
The engine won’t be destroyed, but it will operate with less power and could use more fuel as a result.
Moreover, if you don’t replace your mass air flow sensor, your car can’t function to its full potential and may suffer, which could lead to damage.
Conclusion
You must understand how to reset a mass air flow sensor. Many issues can be avoided by simply resetting this component.
We hope that you can now do the task after you’ve come across this step-by-step guide on how to reset the mass air flow sensor.
However, if you’re not confident with your skills yet, you can always let a professional mechanic reset your car’s mass air flow sensor.
