P0104 Code: Mass Air Flow Sensor Circuit High/Low – Diagnose & Fix Ford, Chevrolet & Volkswagen with ICARZONE UR800

November 06, 2025

Table of Contents 1. What is P0104? 2. Common Causes 3. Key Symptoms 4. Vehicles Prone to P0104 5. Diagnostic Steps with UR800 6. Fixes & Execution 7. Repair Costs & Safety 8. Preventive Maintenance 9. FAQ 10. Summary

Diagnostic Guide

P0104: Mass Air Flow Sensor Circuit Intermittent/High/Low

Diagnose P0104 in Ford, Chevrolet, and Volkswagen vehicles. Learn causes, symptoms, and fixes using ICARZONE UR800.

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P0104

1. What is P0104?

P0104 indicates an issue in the Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Circuit. Voltage readings are intermittent, too high, or too low, affecting engine performance.

Symptoms include rough idle, hesitation, poor acceleration, and increased fuel consumption. Timely diagnosis prevents ECM issues.

2. Common Causes in Vehicles

Faulty MAF Sensor — Old or contaminated sensor causes incorrect voltage readings.
Wiring/Connector Damage — Frayed wires or loose connectors lead to intermittent P0104.
ECM Software Glitch — Some Ford/Chevy models may misreport sensor readings; calibration update needed.
Air Filter/Intake Leak — Dirty filters or vacuum leaks can mimic MAF errors.

3. Key Symptoms

Check Engine Light with P0104 stored
Rough idle and hesitation
Reduced acceleration response
Increased fuel consumption
Limp mode activation in some cases

4. Models Prone to P0104

Ford: 2017–2023 Explorer 2.3L, 2018–2022 F-150 3.5L
Chevrolet: 2018–2023 Malibu 1.5L, 2018–2023 Equinox 1.5L Turbo
Volkswagen: 2018–2023 Tiguan 2.0T, 2019–2023 Jetta 1.4T

Relevant TSBs: Ford 22-1600, GM 23-NA-130, VW 21G040.

5. Diagnostic Steps with UR800

Step	Action	Goal	Pass/Fail
1	Scan system for DTCs	Identify P0104 and related codes	Pass: Only P0104 \| Fail: Multiple airflow or ECM codes
2	Live Data: MAF voltage & airflow readings	Check proper voltage during idle and acceleration	Pass: Normal per spec \| Fail: Erratic voltage
3	Inspect connectors & wiring	Check for corrosion or broken wires	Pass: Clean connectors \| Fail: Replace damaged wiring
4	Replace MAF sensor if needed	Verify code clearance	Pass: Code cleared \| Fail: Further ECM inspection
5	ECM calibration update	Ensure latest software installed	Pass: Updated \| Fail: Update required

6. Fixes & Execution

Replace faulty MAF sensor with OEM part
Repair or replace wiring harness/connectors
Clean intake and apply dielectric grease
Update ECM software if misreporting sensor
Test drive to confirm code cleared and airflow normal

7. Repair Costs & Safety Tips

MAF Sensor Replacement: $120–$350
Wiring harness repair: $50–$150
ECM software update: $0–$50
Labor: $80–$150 depending on model
Disconnect battery before servicing
Inspect intake and sensors while working

8. Preventive Maintenance

Inspect MAF sensor every 20,000 miles
Check wiring harness for corrosion or wear
Keep air filter and intake clean
Use UR800 periodically to monitor live MAF data
Ensure ECM software updated to latest version

9. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with P0104? Short-term driving possible but may reduce engine efficiency. Repair promptly to avoid further ECM damage.

Will replacing the MAF sensor fix all airflow issues? Only if the issue originates from the MAF. Check wiring, connectors, and ECM if the code persists.

Is aftermarket MAF sensor acceptable? OEM recommended. High-quality aftermarket may work but verify voltage specs and ECM compatibility.

Does UR800 help fix P0104? Yes, UR800 provides DTC scan, live voltage/current data, MAF sensor tests, and ECM info for accurate diagnosis.

10. Summary

P0104 in Ford, Chevrolet, and Volkswagen models often results from faulty MAF sensors or wiring issues. Using ICARZONE UR800 ensures accurate diagnostics. Replace sensors, repair connectors, and maintain intake to prevent recurrence.

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