Porsche is often synonymous with German engineering perfection. However, a failure of any system which disrupts this reputation can be disappointing and potentially dangerous. Let’s look at some of the signs and symptoms of MAF Failure and also learn why Dart Auto is the best place to go to resolve the problem.
What is the MAF sensor?
The MAF sensor, also known as the Mass Airflow sensor, is an electronic component in your Porsches’ fuel injection system. Its job is to calculate the amount of air that enters the engine. When this part is faulty, it can cause all manner of problems, namely your engine running too rich or too lean. You will notice black emissions, rough running, and backfires too, as well as reduced fuel economy.
How does the MAF sensor work?
The MAF sensor is found between the throttle body and the air filter and is used to measure the amount of air that enters the engine. The majority of modern vehicles use a hot wire MAF sensor. This type of sensor uses 2 wires, one heated wire and one ambient temperature wire.
The MAF uses is microprocessor to measure the air entering the engine by keeping the hot wire at 200F above the ambient air that is entering the engine. It can then use the energy this took to calculate the airflow. This information can then be relayed to the PCM (Powertrain Control Module), which can then control the injectors and make sure they deliver the correct amount of fuel in the perfect ratio to the air flow entering, which makes the perfect mixture for your engine.
Symptoms of a Failed MAF Sensor
There are three overarching symptoms of a failing MAF sensor which each can cause a variety of negative symptoms for your Porsche:
Hesitating or Jerky Acceleration
A failing MAF sensor may cause poor driveability of your Porsche, such as stalling or jerky acceleration or engine hesitation. This can occur at any time, either when driving at speed or cruising. This issue should never be ignored, as it makes your Porsche dangerous to you and those around you due to its unpredictability.
Your Porsche Runs Rich
Running rich means that your engine has too much fuel and not enough air inside it. This can result in symptoms such as black exhaust fumes, poor fuel efficiency, rough idling, and the illumination of the check engine light. This can happen when your MAF sensor is damaged or in need of maintenance, such as cleaning. The damage or dirt means that it is no longer able to make accurate air measurements and will therefore give the PCM incorrect data. This can lead to the PCM releasing too much fuel into the engine. This issue won’t normally require MAF replacement but instead will likely require your preferred mechanic to clean the wires of the MAF sensor.
Your Porsche is Running Lean
Running lean is the reverse of running rich and occurs when there is too much air in the engine instead of fuel. This is caused by the same issue as when the car runs rich, as the MAF sensor is sending low measurements of air, which results in too little fuel being provided by the PCM. This has the unexpected bonus of increasing fuel efficiency but can severely damage your vehicle if left unresolved. You will likely experience symptoms such as engine surges or hesitations, engine seizures, hard starting, lean misfires,and illumination of the check engine light.
Have your MAF Sensor Fixed by the Best
At Dart Auto, we are passionate 
about German engineering and are Porsche experts. We know your car inside out and will utilize our state-of-the-art equipment and expert training to inspect and diagnose even the smallest of problems. We’re perfectly situated for residents of Aurora, Englewood, Littleton, Centennial, or Denver, CO. We are also specialists in maintaining, repairing,and servicing Audi, BMW, Mini Cooper,and VW brands, meaning that if you drive European imported vehicle, we are your one-stop shop! Call our friendly customer service team today to book your next appointment.
