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Home >> Volkswagen >> 1996 >> Passat GLS, Automatic >> Repair and Diagnosis (Single Page) >> Engine Performance >> Theory and Operation >> Engine Controls - Theory & Operation - Gasoline >> Computerized Engine Controls >> Input Devices >> Mass Airflow (MAF) Sensor
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Mass Airflow (MAF) Sensor

A hot-wire air mass sensor is used to measure airflow into engine. MAF sensor is attached to air filter housing. The hot wire in MAF sensor is kept at 356°F (180°C) above air temperature.

As airflow increases, wire is cooled and resistance of MAF sensor changes. Resulting current change is converted to a voltage signal, and is used by ECM to calculate the volume of air intake.

If a fault develops with MAF sensor signal, signal from throttle position sensor will be substituted for driveability.