OBD codes / P0102
P0102
ModerateMass Air Flow (MAF) Circuit Low Input
P0102 is usually drivable short-term, but the hesitation and lean running can worsen and aren't great for the engine. Low mechanical risk. Start with cleaning the MAF and checking the intake plumbing for leaks before buying a new sensor.
What this code means
The mass-airflow (MAF) sensor measures incoming air so the computer can match fuel to it. P0102 means the MAF's signal is reading too LOW — it's reporting less air than the engine is actually drawing. The most common cause is a dirty sensing element (it cleans up with MAF spray), an air leak between the MAF and the engine that lets in unmeasured air, or a wiring/connector fault. Because the computer trusts a too-low reading, it under-fuels, which causes hesitation and a lean-running engine.
Symptoms you might notice
- Hesitation or stumbling under acceleration
- Rough or low idle, sometimes stalling
- Reduced power
- Possibly a lean code (P0171/P0174) alongside it
- Check-engine light
What it costs to fix
Typical range: $20–$450 · about ~0.2–1 hrs of labor
| If the cause is… | Part | Labor |
|---|---|---|
| MAF sensor (clean) | $8–$15 | ~0.2–0.5 hrs |
| MAF sensor (replace) | $80–$350 | ~0.2–0.5 hrs |
| Intake duct / clamp repair | $10–$120 | ~0.3–1 hrs |
Clean first — a few dollars of MAF cleaner often fixes it. A replacement sensor is the main cost, and OEM units on some makes run higher than aftermarket. An intake-leak fix is usually cheap.
The price swings on which cause it turns out to be — so confirm the cause before paying. Diagnose P0102 for my exact vehicle →
Frequently asked
Can I drive with P0102?
Generally yes, short-term — expect some hesitation and a rougher idle. It isn't an immediate safety issue, so you can drive to get it cleaned or diagnosed; fix it before an emissions test.
Will cleaning fix a P0102 MAF code?
Often — a dirty sensing element reading low is the most common cause, and proper MAF cleaner frequently restores it cheaply. If it returns, look for an intake leak after the sensor or replace the MAF.
What's the difference between P0101 and P0102?
P0101 is a MAF reading that's out of range/implausible; P0102 is specifically a too-LOW signal. Both are commonly a dirty sensor or an intake issue and are diagnosed the same way.
How much does it cost to fix P0102?
Possibly almost nothing if cleaning works. A replacement MAF is the main cost; an intake-duct fix is modest. Clean and inspect before replacing the sensor.
Seeing P0102 on your car? Get a diagnosis specific to your exact year, make and model.
Diagnose P0102 for my vehicleGeneric OBD-II reference. Manufacturer-specific behavior varies — confirm with a scan tool and, for safety-related codes, a professional inspection.