Gone are the days when your car informed you that something was wrong by simply breaking down in a shroud of expensive-smelling steam or smoke. Now, a car can tell you pretty much what's ailing it through a warning light and a fault-code reader. Click here to see our test of the best fault-code readers you can buy.
Here, we explain what some of the most common fault codes mean.
P0101
This fault code is one of the most common OBD II codes and stands for "Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit Range/Performance Problem." In other words, it's an error that's been flagged up by the air flow meter, which measures the amount of air going into your car.
What are the symptoms of the P0101 code?
You may notice symptoms such as reduced engine power, poor fuel economy, and a decrease in acceleration. Your car may also go into "limp-home mode," where the engine powers down to an idle state until it's reset.
What causes the P0101 code?
A P0101 fault code can be caused by a faulty sensor, wiring issue or an air filter that needs replacing. It can also be triggered by a faulty Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor, which measures the amount of air entering the engine. If you've been presented with this fault code, it's important to diagnose and fix the problem quickly, because if left unresolved, it could lead to other engine problems.
Can you drive with a P0101 code?
Most likely, yes. The P0101 fault code won't stop your car from running; however, it will cause a decrease in power and performance. So if you have noticed any of the symptoms mentioned above, then it's important to get the problem checked out as soon as possible.
How to fix the P0101 code
To start, you'll need to check the wiring and connections between the MAF sensor and the ECU (Engine Control Unit), then replace any faulty parts. If all of this checks out okay, it's likely that you'll need to replace your air filter.
Remember, prevention is better than cure - regular maintenance can help to prevent serious issues down the line, so follow your car's maintenance schedule as listed in its Haynes manual or online Haynes Autofix product.
