Trouble code · Powertrain · Generic (all makes)

P0101 Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit Range/Performance

The mass airflow (MAF) sensor's reading doesn't make sense compared with what the engine computer expects.

Safe to drive?
Drive with caution
Get it fixed soon
Scanner you need
Any OBD2 scanner
Even a basic code reader shows it
NHTSA complaints quoting it
63
Vehicle complaints, 2015–2025

Common causes

  • Dirty or faulty MAF sensor
  • Air leak between the sensor and the engine
  • Clogged air filter
  • Wiring problem

Symptoms

  • Hesitation, poor acceleration, rough idle, stalling, poor fuel economy

Can I drive with it?

Usually drivable, but poor acceleration can be a hazard when merging. Get it checked soon.

Tip: Cleaning the MAF sensor with spray made for it (never touch the wire) is a cheap first step.

Which scanner reads it?

Any OBD2 scanner reads it. Live MAF readings help confirm the cause.

Budget tools like the ANCEL AD310 read it; tools with live data and graphing – like the BlueDriver or OBDLink MX+ – help you find the cause. Not sure which fits you? Try the Find My Scanner quiz.

In the data

How common is it? In New York City’s taxi and for-hire fleet – high-mileage cars, mostly hybrids – P0101 was the #7 code found on cars failing inspection in 2020–21 (2.2% of codes found).

Of the vehicle complaints owners filed with NHTSA from 2015 to 2025, 63 quote P0101 – most often from Nissan, Chevrolet, Cadillac owners. Complaints lean toward serious problems, so treat this as a sign of how often the code turns up in real reports, not how often cars get it.

Both sources are compared on the Trends page.

General information to help you understand a code – not a diagnosis. Your car’s service information or a qualified mechanic has the final word. See how we research.