Code P0101 MAF error

FRONTIER_NOLE

MEMBER
2011 NISSAN FRONTIER
V6
MANUAL
103,000 MILES

So a while back, twice I had the check engine light go on then I scanned it and received the P0101 code.

So I clean the MAF, and that worked for a while. Now I tried cleaning it again and the check engine light will stay on.

I have replaced the MAF sensor itself now twice, within a couple of weeks. Each time they would work for a day or two then the check engine light and P0101 code would come back.

I took it to a repair place, they said it had a dirt ground and cleaned it up and was working. After a few hours of driving the light and code came back. They tell me they tested the sensor and it was testing good, then they found a service bulletin state the ECM needed a software update that this was a known issue with Frontiers, that it would clear up the issue.

I had the ECM software updated at the dealer, light still comes on. They said it could be the MAF or it needs a tune up. This does not sound right, since the MAF sensor was already replaced twice.

Would any one have any insight? I was thinking maybe PVC valve, but the MAF are clean no oil on them. I tried looking for any cracking or holes for ail leaks but couldn't see any. This one has me stumped, not really wanting to take it back to the dealer, as they are expensive.

1 Reply

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

It can be frustrating when they guess at what it could be even when you have a code telling you where to go and what to test.

I attached the testing that we need to do in order to figure this out.

If you look at the second attachment you will see possible causes. Clearly MAF is on there but unless the replacement sensors you are getting are not correct for this vehicle (good possibility as they are made cheap and give the wrong reading to the ECM) or you have another one of these issues listed.

If you look under the DTC detecting condition, you will see that it sets this code when it is giving incorrect readings during different driving conditions. This is why it may take a little while to reset the light. You have to reach the driving condition where it is not correct and it sets the code. This is why it could be a sensor if you replaced it twice with the same name brand part. If the part is not made correctly then it could be giving a different reading then the ECM expects because they did not make it correctly for your vehicle. It does not happen often but it does happen.

Let's run through this testing and we can go from there. Let me know what questions you have.

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