Air Flow Meter/Sensor: Description and Operation

MAF Sensor Circuit.:

PURPOSE
The Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor measures the flow of air which passes through it in a given time. The PCM uses this information to monitor the operating condition of the engine for fuel delivery calculations. A large quantity of air movement indicates acceleration, while a small quantity indicates deceleration or idle.

OPERATION
The Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor measures the flow of air which passes through it by measuring the electrical power required to maintain the sensing element at a specific number of degrees Celsius above the incoming air temperature. As the air enters the sample tube it passes over and cools the sensing element, which then requires additional current to maintain the prescribed uniform temperature. The PCM uses this information to monitor the operating condition of the engine for fuel delivery calculations.

LOCATION
The mass air flow sensor is located in the air intake passage between the air cleaner and intake resonator.