P0104 — Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit Intermittent
Drive with caution — fix soon.
What P0104 means
This code means the engine computer detected an intermittent fault in the mass air flow (MAF) sensor circuit, meaning the signal drops out or jumps around now and then rather than constantly. It's usually caused by loose or corroded wiring and connectors, or a sensor that's beginning to fail. Intermittent codes can be tricky to pinpoint, but they're often fixable by repairing connections or replacing the sensor.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light comes on and off
- Occasional hesitation or stumbling
- Intermittent rough idle
- Inconsistent fuel economy
- Brief loss of power that comes and goes
Common causes
- Loose or corroded MAF sensor connector
- Frayed or damaged wiring in the circuit
- Failing mass air flow sensor
- Poor ground connection
- Vacuum or intake air leak
Typical repair cost
$100 – $400
Varies by vehicle and root cause.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with a P0104 code?
Usually yes for short trips, but the intermittent nature means performance can drop unexpectedly. You may feel occasional hesitation or stumbling. Get it diagnosed before the problem becomes constant.
How much does it cost to fix a P0104?
Repairs typically range from $100 to $400. A simple wiring or connector fix is cheaper, while replacing the MAF sensor with labor costs more.
Is a P0104 code serious?
It's moderate. It won't usually cause immediate engine damage, but the inconsistent signal can lead to stalling and poor performance over time, so it's worth addressing.
Why is my P0104 code intermittent?
Intermittent faults usually come from loose or corroded connections that only break contact under vibration or heat. A mechanic will often wiggle-test the wiring and connector to find the weak spot.