P0104
- Powertrain
- Generic (SAE)
- Emissions
Diagnose soon
Usually safe to drive short distances, but the fault will not clear itself and can worsen or fail an emissions test.
Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit Intermittent
This code is in our catalogue but has not yet been through editorial review, so the guidance below is limited to what our structured data supports. We publish deeper diagnostic content only after a code has been reviewed — here is why.
The ECU detects intermittent signal dropouts or noise on the mass air flow (MAF) sensor circuit. The fault is not constantly present, suggesting a loose connection, intermittent wiring break, or a failing sensor under specific conditions (vibration, temperature).
A trouble code records what a control module measured. It does not identify which part failed. Test before replacing anything.
- Safe to drive
- Usually safe to drive short distances, but the fault will not clear itself and can worsen or fail an emissions test.
- Urgency
- Diagnose soon
- Will it pass emissions
- No
- Check engine light
- Solid
- Clearing the light
- A completed drive cycle is normally required before the monitor re-runs and the light can clear.
| # | Cause | How often | Component |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MAF connector loose or corroded | Very common | — |
| 2 | Wiring chafed against engine components | Common | — |
| 3 | MAF sensor failing intermittently | Common | — |
Ordering reflects how often each cause is responsible in general, not a probability for your vehicle. Confirm by testing.
- Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor
- MAF Connector
- MAF Wiring
- Definition
- Generic code set (SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6) via the OBDexopen database, dedicated to the public domain under CC0-1.0.
- Diagnostic guidance
- Written and reviewed in-house. See our editorial policy.
- Review status
- Awaiting review
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