Error Code P0103: What It Means & What To Do?

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If you are experiencing unusual response of the throttle, lack of power forms the car engine, impact on the fuel economy and frequent illumination of the Check Engine Light, it might be an indication of the OBD Code P0103 error.

The MAF sensor ensures that the correct amount of air enters the engine, as the ECM (Engine Control Module) uses this information to control the amount of fuel and ignition timing. Error Code P0103 means the MAF has a higher voltage output to the ECU (Engine Control Unit), an electronic control unit that controls the actuators of the internal combustion engine, ensuring optimal engine performance. Thus, This OBD code is set when the PCM detects the MAF sensor experiencing high voltage output.

What causes the problem of Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit High?

• Faulty/Dirty Mass Air Flow sensor
• Intake air leakages
• Dirty Air Filters
• PCM failure or requiring reprogramming
• Wiring and electrical problems

1. Powertrain Control Module - P0103 error code also relates to problems with the powertrain that is not able to generate response in time causing distorted engine timing. Find all the Powertrain related parts with us.
2. Engine Control Module - Faulty ECM may flash and store wrong OBD error and cause engine stalling and hard idles. Thus, replace faulty ECM immediately.
3. Catalytic Converter - Catalytic converters at fault will lead to dropped fuel efficiency and performance along with increased emissions. Thus, replace faulty parts now!
4. Manifold Gasket Set - Check for faults in the intake gaskets as it will hamper the engine performance as well as the intake system and fuel delivery system as well. Thus, replace it now!
5. Air Filters - Check for clogged and damaged air filters and replace them immediately as it will hamper the air intake systems. Buy new filters now!
6. Diagnostic Tool - Choose from our wide variety of diagnostic tools to detect and correct the OBD code error.
7. Mass Air Flow Sensor - A faulty mass airflow sensor will cause problems similar to low compression or low vacuum, and will also show symptoms similar to when your vehicle has low fuel pressure from a faulty fuel pump. Thus, replace damaged/faulty MAF sensor today!

The engine control module (PCM) uses pressure sensors to determine the pressure in the fuel system. If the pressure drops too low, the PCM may set code P0103. Some of the prime symptoms to this problem are mentioned below;

Common Symptoms

• Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination
• Rough engine with reduces response
• Black smoke from tailpipe
• Engine Stalling and not starting
• Increased fuel consumption

The main components to look for error and correct the OBD error are following;

• Replacement of MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor
• Air Intake Pipe replacement
• Intake Manifold Seal/valve replacement
• Wiring/connections to the MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor to be replace

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Following steps should be followed to correct OBD code P0103 problem;

• Always check for sensor wiring and connectors to make sure they are intact, not frayed, broken, routed too close to ignition wires/coils, relays, motors, etc.
• Also inspect leakages in the air intake system and inspect the MAF sensor wires or film to see contaminations. Carefully clean the MAF and air intake mesh.
• Vacuum loss to the MAP sensor can also trigger this DTC. A low minimum air rate through the sensor bore may cause this DTC to set at idle or during deceleration. Thus, Inspect for any vacuum leaks downstream of the MAF sensor.
• Check real-time sensor values from the MAF sensor, O2 sensors, etc. using a diagnostic scan tool.
• Barometric Pressure (BARO) which is used to calculate the predicted MAF value is initially based on the MAP sensor at key ON. A high resistance on the ground circuit of the MAP sensor can cause this DTC to set.
• Perform an exhaust back pressure test to determine if the catalytic converter may be clogged. Clean/replace the components as required.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0103 code

Some of the common mistakes done while changing diagnosing the OBD code P0103 are:

• Leakage in Intake manifold not checked properly
• Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor replaced without proper examination
• Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure not detected
• Not checking for faulty wiring and connections