How the MAF Sensor
works (symptoms are
engine stumbles, loss of power)
Category:
Automotive-Sensors (for
DIY-technician)
The MAF or Mass Air Flow sensor is an
ingenuous device that measures incoming air to the engine. This
device uses a hot platinum wire to detect minute changes in the
incoming air. The more air coming in the more the MAS sensor has to
cool the wire to maintain a specific temperature. For you, the
general consumer and DIY mechanic there are specific and easy things
you can do to correct a large percentage of issues, saving loads of
money.
See our technical and DIY blogs.
What is a MAP Sensor
(symptoms are loss of power)
Category:
Automotive-Sensors (for
DIY-technician)
The MAP sensor is connected to the
intake manifold. Is is a simple square-plastic sensor connected to a
vacuum hose. If your vehicle has a MAP sensor your fuel injection is
called speed density, because the ECM or engine computer calculates
the amount of incoming air from the MAP reading. It is not a direct
measurement. See our technical and DIY blogs.
Is the ECT sensor
operational? (symptoms are
engine running rich, bad fuel economy
Category:
Automotive-Sensors (for
DIY-technician)
The ECT or engine coolant
temperature sensor is a main input to the ECM. This sensor has a
major effect on fuel economy. The ECT sensor value also determines
when most of the systems in your vehicle start to work. With a cold
engine most components and and systems will not work at all. See our technical and DIY blogs.
The ignition coil is
shorted, but how? (symptoms are
engine won't start)
Category:
Automotive-Sensors (for
DIY-technician)
The ignition coil is an
auto-transformer that steps up the voltage and steps down the
current. The idea is to raise the voltage high enough so that it
jumps the spark plug gap and start combustion in the cylinder. The
truth is today's ignition coils are expensive and hard to reach.
There are however very specific testing techniques that'll allow you
to know if the coil is the culprit. See our technical and DIY blogs.
The CRK or
crankshaft position sensor. (symptoms are
engine will not start)
Category:
Automotive-Sensors (for
DIY-technician)
The position and speed of the
crankshaft is the most important input to the ECM. Without this
signal the engine will not start. There are also 3 different types
of CRK sensors and each requires specific knowledge and practice to
test. It is however at the level of a normal consumer with
electrical skills. See our technical and DIY blogs.
