What is the P0103 fault number? High Mass Air Flow Circuit (MAF Circuit) What is an input fault description? How to fix P0103 fault codes? What are the symptoms and causes for the P0103 error code?
What is the P0103 fault code? What does it signify?
The MAF sensor measures the volume and density air entering your vehicle’s engines. The engine is usually located downstream of the air filter in the intake duct. MAF sensors usually contain a wire, or in some cases, grille that is exposed to intake airflow. The powertrain control module, or PCM, sends a voltage signal through this wire to heat it to a specific temperature. The heated wire is cooled by the sucked air, which changes its resistance. In response to the resistance change, the PCM adjusts the voltage it applies the wire to. The voltage level that is returned to the PCM depends on the amount of air passing through it.
The PCM uses this sensor’s information to monitor air intake volume. The MAF sensor data is also used by the PCM to determine the right amount of fuel, and sometimes even the ignition timing.
The PCM stores the P0103 code when it detects a high-voltage signal from the MAF sensors. To prevent damage to the engine or vehicle, some vehicles can enter safe mode.
Note: Some MAF sensors include an air temperature sensor that is used by the PCM to optimize engine operation. The MAF circuit trouble codes P0101,P0102, P0102,and P0104 are closely related. Code P0103 may be accompanied by other trouble codes, such as misfire codes and oxygen (O2) sensor codes.
What causes the P0103 Fault code?
P0103 can be set for many reasons. These are some of the most probable causes for P0103 to occur:
- – Dirty MAF sensor
- – Problem with the MAF circuit
- – Intake air leaks
- – Defective MAF sensor
- PCM-related issues
What are the symptoms for the P0103 fault code?
As with most OBD-II codes code P0103 only has a handful symptoms. If you want to understand the root cause of your problem, it is important that you monitor your vehicle’s symptoms.
- – Illumination and control of the check engine light
- – Hard start
- – Exhaust pipe emits black smoke
- Engine Stalling and Stalling
- – Engine performance issues (such a lack of power or idle fluctuations)
- – Increased fuel consumption
How to Fix the P0103 Fault Code
- First, the code must be deleted. Then, a road test should take place to determine if it will come back.
- If the code returns, the sensor must first be unplugged and then reconnected. It is important to inspect the connectors and cables that connect to the sensor. You must replace damaged or loose cables.
- On older cars, check for vacuum leaks, loose fittings, and clamps at intake. Older components may harden and crack.
- Use a special cleaner spray to clean the MAF sensors if they are dirty.
- Air filters that are dirty should be changed.
- – To determine if the MAF sensors output is too high, test the circuit with a multimeter that has a digital display. If the voltage readings exceed the recommended limit, the MAF sensors should be replaced.
How serious is the P0103 Fault code?
It is good enough to drive. It will generally run well, although it can occasionally be erratic, have less power, kickback, or idle at an inconsistently high level than usual. The engine should be repaired immediately if it is not running properly. If not, internal motor damage could occur.
