Mass air flow sensor Kalina signs of malfunction

When controlling the operation of a car engine, the electronic unit acts according to the readings of a group of main sensors. These include a meter for the amount of air sucked into the intake manifold through an open throttle valve. Receiving this data, the controller increases or decreases the fuel supply, achieving the optimal ratio of the components of the combustible mixture. Failure of the flow meter significantly impairs the performance of the power unit to the point of making it impossible to move further. Therefore, it is advisable for novice drivers to study the signs of a malfunction of the mass air flow sensor (abbreviated as MAF).

Flowmeter design

Knowing the design of the air sensor, you will quickly understand the principle of its operation and understand why a faulty meter cannot be repaired, but only replaced. The device is not difficult to find - it is built into the air duct connecting the filter - air flow purifier with the throttle valve block. The exact location depends on the make and model of the car.

The majority of vehicles in use are equipped with hot-wire or film meters. The difference is in the design of the sensing element; the operating principle remains unchanged. An anemometer flow meter is a housing in which 2 platinum threads are placed - a measuring and a reference. How does the mass air flow sensor function in a car:

1. The controller supplies power to both threads. As they heat up, they change resistance equally.
2. When the engine is running, the first thread is washed by air passing through the throttle and cooled. The stronger the air flow, the more intense the cooling.
3. The electronic unit records the difference in resistance between the measuring and reference threads. Having made the calculation, the ECU determines the mass of passing air and directs the corresponding amount of fuel to the injectors.

Reference. In modern cars with turbocharged engines, mass flow sensors are replaced by absolute pressure meters (MAP) - more reliable devices with a long service life. Manufacturers began to equip new naturally aspirated engines with similar products.

The film measuring device operates on the same principle, only instead of threads, platinum-coated ceramic elements are used. That is why it is quite possible to check the mass air flow sensor, but not to repair it. A burnt thread or damaged coating cannot be replaced, only the entire product.

Video “Features of replacing the regulator on Kalinas and Grants”

A specialist will tell you what needs to be taken into account when replacing the regulator in domestic cars and what mistakes should not be made (the author of the video is the channel In Sandro’s Garage).

In the electronic engine control system of the popular Russian small car Lada Kalina, the sensor responsible for the mass flow of intake air (mass air flow sensor) is a very important component. It is located close to the air filter. Its purpose is to determine the mass fraction of air flow supplied to the combustion chambers of the engine.

If incorrect operation of the mass air flow sensor is observed, this creates the preconditions for malfunctions in the functionality of the engine. Diagnostics will help identify the problem. If a breakdown occurs, the owner will need to replace the specified sensor.

It is no secret that any component of the Lada Kalina car needs a periodic review of its condition. Prevention allows you to timely identify a malfunction and take prompt measures to eliminate it. Next, we will tell you how to check the mass air flow sensor.

Consequences of sensor failure

When, for various reasons, the sensor fails or produces incorrect readings, the controller changes the operating algorithm. He begins to prepare the air-fuel mixture, focusing on the throttle position meter and lambda probe. Due to the lack of data previously received from the mass air flow sensor, the electronic unit “does not know” about the real amount of incoming air and cannot mix it with gasoline in optimal proportions.

By switching the controller to emergency operation mode, you can determine the main symptoms of a malfunction of the mass air flow sensor:

• on the driver’s dashboard, the control unit turns on the Check Engine light display, indicating problems in the fuel supply or ignition system;
• idle speed is unstable - it either rises to 1500 rpm, then drops to zero (the engine stalls);
• “When cold” the engine starts with great difficulty;
• incorrect preparation of the combustible mixture causes an increase in fuel consumption, regardless of driving conditions and operating mode;
• There is a decrease in the power of the power unit and frequent unreasonable jerks while driving.

Note. The inclusion of the Check Engine indicator does not provide the driver with specific information about the nature of the breakdown. The inscription calls for diagnosing engine systems using a computer connected to the service port. In this way, you can check the performance of the mass air flow sensor and other sensors in a service station.

Indirectly, a malfunction of the flow meter is indicated by the appearance of black smoke from the exhaust pipe. If the vehicle does not have an on-board computer and it is impossible to track instantaneous gasoline consumption, it is worth unscrewing 1-2 spark plugs from any cylinders and inspecting the electrodes. A layer of black soot will confirm excessive enrichment of the mixture due to emergency operation of the electronics.

How to independently check the mass air flow sensor for serviceability

1. Diagnostic scanner and OBD-II error code detection program. A method that guarantees 100% results, but requires basic user training.
2. Check the connector of the connecting cable from the ECU for the integrity of the wires and contacts. Performed with the engine turned off and the ignition key in “ON” position. The connector is first disconnected from the flow meter. It is necessary to make sure that there is a supply of 12 V on contact No. 2, and 5 V on contact No. 4 relative to the negative contact No. 3 (ground).
3. Checking the functionality of electronic sensors and the control board of the Kalina mass air flow sensor. The connector is connected, the engine is turned off, the key is in the “ON” position. The quiescent voltage of a working flow meter on pin No. 5 should correspond to 1 V (± 0.02 V). If the multimeter shows a voltage of 1.03–1.05 V, the mass air flow sensor needs to be replaced quickly, but can still work. A faulty flow meter will show a voltage of more than 1.05 V.

The driver will immediately feel the symptoms of the malfunction. Traction disappears at the slightest load, the car stalls when going uphill. When the engine is not warmed up, the speed fluctuates and hangs after releasing the gas. The “Check-Engine” indicator light comes on and does not go out.

Tip: To prevent breakdowns of an expensive flow meter, it is recommended to check its condition by inspection each time the air filter is replaced. If dust or moisture is found inside, you need to find and eliminate the cause, and blow the sensor itself with compressed air or wash it with a special aerosol product.

Causes of problems

The air flow meter becomes unusable for the following reasons:

• a lot of dust and dirt gets on the measuring elements, because the car owner rarely changes the air filter;
• on heavily worn engines, gasoline and oil vapors penetrate into the mass air flow sensor through the crankcase ventilation pipe;
• a hole in the corrugated air duct from where dust is sucked in;
• accidental damage due to unqualified repairs;
• break in the wires connecting the sensor connector to the controller.

In addition to the above reasons, natural wear and tear of the device also occurs. The service life of a new mass air flow sensor is 50–250 thousand km, depending on the make and origin of the car.

How to choose a new MAF sensor (Kalina 8 valves)

In order to ensure maximum system performance and compatibility with the controller, before replacing an old product with a new one, you must carefully read the markings on the product body

When purchasing new products, beware of counterfeits! Some recommendations on what you should pay attention to (regarding BOSCH products): - inside the connector of the original sensor, next to the contacts, there are three metal wells that resemble the heads of small nails in appearance. These elements are used at the Bosch plant to program the sensitivity of the mass air flow sensor

On counterfeit products, such elements are absent or have a plastic structure.

Diagnostics in garage conditions

The above symptoms also appear during other failures, for example, failure of the oxygen sensor or throttle position. In all such cases, the electronic unit operates in the same way - it goes into emergency mode for preparing the air-gasoline mixture. Hence similar consequences.

To test the mass air flow sensor without instruments, follow these simple steps:

1. Open the hood and disconnect the connector from the mass air flow sensor.
2. Start the engine and monitor idle speed. The controller must raise the crankshaft speed to 1500 rpm and hold it stably. If the idle speed continues to float, the flow meter is most likely working.
3. Make a test drive over a short distance, observing the behavior of the car. If the engine starts to work even worse, then the problem lies elsewhere.

This technique does not allow one to accurately determine the “culprit” of problems, especially when there are several of them. For example, at the same time the lambda probe failed. It is necessary to carry out more accurate diagnostics - check the mass air flow sensor with a multimeter according to the following instructions:

1. Switch the multimeter to voltage measurement mode. Open the hood and find the sensor connection block.
2. Connect the red wire from the device to the input signal contact (usually colored yellow). Connect the second clamp with black insulation to the green conductor.
3. Turn on the ignition and record the voltmeter readings.

A voltage in the range of 1–1.03 V indicates full functionality of the sensor. If you observe signs of emergency mode while driving a car, it is worth checking other meters that affect fuel supply.

Readings of 1.04–1.05 volts indicate that the platinum elements of the sensor are quite worn out, and you should prepare to replace the mass air flow sensor. A value of 1.06 V or more indicates that the air flow meter has died. You need to purchase a new meter and install it on the air duct instead of the old one.

If, as a result of the diagnosis, you received average readings, it would not hurt to clean the sensor. Do not try to get inside the mass air flow sensor with various brushes - for this purpose there is a special liquid on sale that washes away dirt from the air mesh and measuring elements.

View Queue

Queue

• delete everything
• Disable

Replacing the mass air flow sensor in the Kalina model

When the owner of a Lada Kalina feels a deterioration in engine performance along with the presence of the above symptoms, or a malfunction of the mass air flow sensor is identified during a thorough diagnosis, it is not recommended to delay the procedure for replacing the component. If repairs are neglected, the problem will begin to progress, causing the LADA Kalina engine to “lose” its full functionality. The replacement process itself is very simple and does not require detailed comments. It is recommended to observe safety measures regarding preliminary de-energization of the on-board network by disconnecting the terminals from the battery.

Kalina adsorber valve

Kalina ground clearance

Kalina gas tank volume

Prevention of DMRV malfunctions

Since all the sensitive elements of the device are located in the air flow, their performance directly depends on the air quality. The mass air flow sensor is located immediately after the air filter, and the condition of the latter has a direct impact on the performance of the sensor.

1. It is necessary to change the filter in a timely manner, preventing the filter element from rupturing and dust from entering the mass air flow sensor.
2. If water gets into the air filter (for example, when driving through a deep puddle), you need to dry it, or better yet, replace it with a new one. The slightest drops of water can damage sensitive sensors.
3. The use of so-called “zero” sports filters is highly discouraged. The membrane of the filter element has pores of increased diameter, and dust particles fall inside the measuring channel of the mass flow sensor.

Replacement

• Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.

• Remove the connector from the sensor.

• Unscrew the two 10mm bolts.

• Loosen the clamp and remove the sensor.

Installing the new one is done in reverse order.

Reasons for error P0113

In diagnostic devices, this “trouble” is called Intake Air Temperature Sensor High. The described error p0113 appears in only four cases, which is due to the simplicity of the sensor design:

• malfunction of the thermistor itself;
• a violation in the sensor’s power supply circuit—one of the wires is shorted or broken;
• there is no electrical contact in the connecting block;
• a layer of dirt and (or) oil stains settling on the sensor, reducing the sensitivity of the thermistor.

The “error 113” indication can appear on any modern car, both Russian and foreign made. It could be Mercedes with Audi or VAZ 2112, 2114, GAZ, UAZ.

An intake air temperature sensor is installed on any modern engine. Sometimes the reason is quite banal. Error 0113 on a VAZ 2114 or VAZ 2115, 2110, 2111, 2107-2109 (injector) sometimes appears after the car has been parked for a long time without use, when the battery is too, but not completely, discharged. Charging it restores the functionality of the machine's systems, including the air temperature sensor.

Failed sensor

Checking the mass air flow sensor with a multimeter

1. Check the voltage on the mass air flow sensor block:

1. Set the multimeter to voltmeter mode.
2. Remove the connector with the wires from the mass air flow sensor (snap off the lock).
3. Turn on the ignition.
4. We connect the negative probe of the device to the engine ground, and the other to terminal No. 2 of the block (there is a number on the block).
5. We measure the voltage at terminal No. 4 of the block.

The voltage at pin No. 2 should be at least 12 V , and at pin No. 4 about 5 V. If the device readings are different, it means the battery is discharged, the power circuit or the computer is faulty.

2. We check the Bosch mass air flow sensor on Lada Priora and Kalina 1 (with article numbers: 0 280 218 004, 0 280 218 037, 0 280 218 116):

1. Set the multimeter to voltmeter mode. (measurement limit 2 V).
2. Turn on the ignition.
3. We connect the “negative” probe of the device to terminal No. 3 , and the other to terminal No. 1 .

CHECKING THE DMRV WITH A MULTIMETER

1. Check the voltage on the mass air flow sensor block:

• Set the multimeter to voltmeter mode.
• Remove the connector with the wires from the mass air flow sensor (snap off the lock).
• Turn on the ignition.
• We connect the negative probe of the device to the engine ground, and the other to terminal No. 2 of the block (there is a number on the block).
• We measure the voltage at terminal No. 4 of the block.

The voltage at pin No. 2 should be at least 12 V, and at pin No. 4 about 5 V. If the device readings are different, it means the battery is discharged, the power circuit or the computer is faulty.

2. We check the Bosch mass air flow sensor on Lada Priora and Kalina 1 (with article numbers: 0 280 218 004, 0 280 218 037, 0 280 218 116):

• Set the multimeter to voltmeter mode. (measurement limit 2 V).
• Turn on the ignition.
• We connect the “negative” probe of the device to terminal No. 3, and the other to terminal No. 1.

Compare the device readings with the table:

Checking the mass air flow sensor is also shown in the video:

Another way to check the mass air flow sensor is to replace it with a known good one.

What sensors are installed on Kalina

Over the years, Kalina has been equipped with many engines that differ from each other, both in design solutions and engine control units. All these parameters depend on which mass air flow sensor is installed on your car. Below is a table with all the sensors that have ever been installed on Kalina.

A new sensor must be purchased using the number of the old sensor. It is the number on the sensor that determines its operating parameters, and if you install another mass air flow sensor, albeit structurally similar, the car will operate unstably.

Checking the mass air flow sensor circuit

First of all, you should check the wiring leading to the sensor. To do this, use a voltmeter to measure the voltage at the terminals of the 5-pin block, having previously disconnected it. Measurements are taken with the ignition on and the engine off. If the sensor’s power supply circuit is working properly, then the voltage between 2 and 3 sensor terminals should be at least 10 V, and between 3 and 4, 1 and 3 – 4.8–5.2 V.

If a multimeter is used as a diagnostic device, it is also necessary to measure the resistance between pin 5 and ground. The normal resistance level is 4–6 kOhm. If it is below this level, there is a short to ground. If the measurement result exceeds 100 kOhm, this indicates an open circuit or a controller malfunction.