Trouble code solution P010B: decoding, causes, resetting, meaning

Contents

Technical description and explained code P010B
Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions
Factors that can cause this error code
How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P010B
Diagnose and repair of problems
On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently
Video

Fault code P010B is called “Mass or Volume Air Flow (MAF/VAF) “B” Circuit Range/Performance Problem” but in different programs it may be called differently. This fault designation applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II.

Technical description and explained code P010B

This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code. Error P010B is considered a general code because it applies to all makes and models of vehicles. Although the specific repair steps may vary slightly from model to model.

The mass air flow sensor (MAF) is a sensor installed in the air intake duct of the vehicle engine after the air filter. It is used to measure the volume and density of the air drawn into the engine. The mass air flow sensor itself measures only a portion of the incoming air. This value is used to calculate the total volume and density of the intake air.

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) uses this reading along with other sensor parameters. To ensure proper fuel delivery at all times, for optimum power and fuel economy.

Typically, this diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P010B means that there is a problem with the “B” sensor or the mass or volume airflow circuit (MAF/VAF). The PCM detects that the actual mass or volume flow sensor frequency signal is not within the specified expected range of the calculated value.

Some mass airflow sensors also include an air temperature sensor. Which provides another value that the PCM uses for optimum engine performance.

Closely related MAF/VAF circuit fault codes include:

P010A Mass or Volume Air Flow “B” Circuit
P010C Mass or Volume Air Flow “B” Circuit Low
P010D Mass or Volume Air Flow “B” Circuit High
P010E Mass or Volume Air Flow “B” Circuit Intermittent/Erratic

Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions

The main signal that an error P010B has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.

It can also be warning signs such as:

Check engine light on the control panel is on.
Jerking / ignition skips.
Black smoke coming out of the exhaust pipe.
Engine stalls or starts badly.
Loss of power.
Lambda probe related errors are generated.

Factors that can cause this error code

The error code P010B can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:

Mass or volumetric air flow sensor (MAF/VAF) may be dirty.
Defective mass air flow sensor.
Leaking intake air.
Electrical harness or connectors to the mass flow or volume flow sensor (MAF/VAF) may be worn (open, short-circuited, chafed, bad connection, etc.).
The fuel vapor purge valve from the tank is damaged and is introducing extra air into the intake port.
Worn or damaged gasket under throttle valve or intake manifold.
Worn vacuum lines.
Clogged catalytic converter (on some models).

Please note, there may be other fault codes along with error P010B. You may have ignition misfire codes or O₂ sensor codes. Therefore, it is important to get the “big picture” of how the systems work together and affect each other when diagnosing.

How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P010B

Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P010B:

Check all cables and associated connectors leading to the mass or volume flow sensor (MAF/VAF). Make sure they are not broken or frayed. Repair or replace if necessary.
Check for air leaks in the intake system. Correct the problem if you find a leak.
Inspect the mass or volumetric air flow sensor (MAF/VAF) power supply wire for dirt and dust.
If the air filter is dirty, it must be replaced.
There are air intake systems with a mesh, in which case you need to make sure it is clean.
This code may be caused by a high resistance in the ground circuit of the absolute pressure sensor (MAP).
Replace the mass air flow sensor.

Diagnose and repair of problems

You should start diagnosing the P010B fault with the wiring, as well as the connectors of the mass air flow sensor. Make sure they are intact, not frayed or broken. The wiring should not be too close to the wires / ignition coils, relays, etc.

Visually check for obvious air leaks in the air intake system. Also lack of vacuum on the MAP sensor can cause this fault code. It’s worth checking the air filter, if it’s dirty, it needs to be replaced. If there is a screen in the air intake system, make sure it is clean.

Carefully inspect the mass air flow sensor to see impurities such as dirt, dust, oil, etc. Clean thoroughly with MAF cleaning spray, this is usually a good diagnostic/repair step done on your own.

Low minimum air flow through the sensor port can cause this fault code to set at idle or during deceleration. Check for vacuum leaks after the mass air flow sensor.

Use a diagnostic tool to monitor the mass air flow sensor values, in real time. Check the Technical Service Bulletins (TSB) for your specific make/model for known problems with your vehicle.

Atmospheric pressure (BARO), which is used to calculate the predicted MAF value, is initially based on the MAP sensor when the key is on. High resistance in the MAP sensor ground circuit can cause this trouble code to set.

Perform an exhaust backpressure test to determine if the catalytic converter is clogged.

If you do need to replace the mass airflow sensor, we recommend using a genuine OEM sensor from the manufacturer. Not to buy replacement parts of dubious origin.

Using a reusable oil air filter can cause a P010B error code if it is overly lubricated. Oil can get on the thin wire and create a film inside the mass airflow sensor or contaminate it. Use something like MAF/VAF sensor spray to clean in these situations.