P02FA Diesel Intake Air Flow Position Sensor Min/Max Stop Performance
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Diesel Intake Air Flow Position Sensor Min/Max Stop Performance
What does that mean?
This generic powertrain/engine diagnostic trouble code (DTC) can typically apply to all diesel OBD-II equipped engines, but shows up more often in certain Chevy, Dodge, Ford and GMC trucks.
Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on year, make, model and powertrain configuration.
The Diesel Intake Air Flow Position Sensor (DIAFPS) is usually bolted to the throttle body mounted to the intake manifold or in a tube in the intake air stream. The DIAFPS sensor converts the incoming airflow volume into an electrical signal for the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
The PCM receives this voltage signal to determine how much clean, filtered air is entering the engine versus how much is entering through the exhaust system via the Exhaust Gas Recirculation System, or EGR System. When the EGR system is activated, the PCM should note a change in airflow. If not, then there may be something wrong with the EGR system, or there may be something wrong with the DIAFPS, also known as a MAF sensor. This code is set if this input does not match normal engine operating conditions stored in the PCM’s memory, even for a second, as these diagnostic trouble codes demonstrate. It also looks at the voltage signal from the DIAFPS to determine if it is correct at initial Key On.
The code P02FA Diesel Intake Air Flow Position Sensor Min/Max Stop Performance indicates a minimum or maximum stop performance problem within the diesel intake air flow position sensor circuit. It could have been set because of mechanical (physical damage to the sensor itself, thereby causing an electrical fault) or electrical (DIAFPS sensor circuit) issues. These cannot be overlooked in the troubleshooting stage, especially when dealing with an intermittent problem.
Troubleshooting steps may vary depending upon manufacturer, type of DIAFCS motor/control and wire colors.
What is the severity of this DTC?
Severity in all cases will be not severe. Since they are electrical failures, the PCM can compensate adequately for them.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P02FA trouble code may include:
Malfunction Indicator Light On Possible low idle speed only No EGR System operation No Regeneration of the diesel particulate filter to burn off the soot build up (won’t burn off soot out of the DPF catalyst)What are some of the common causes of the code?
Causes for this P02FA code may include:
Open in the signal circuit to the DIAFPS sensor - possible Short to voltage in the signal circuit to the DIAFPS sensor - possible Short to ground in the signal circuit to the DIAFPS sensor - possible Failed DIAFPS Sensor - likely Failed PCM - unlikelyWhat are some P02FA troubleshooting steps?
A good starting point is always to check for technical service bulletins (TSB) for your vehicle. Your issue may be a known issue with a known fix put out by the manufacturer and can save you time and money during diagnosis.
Next, locate the DIAFPS sensor on your vehicle. This sensor is usually bolted to the throttle body mounted to the intake manifold or in a tube in the intake air stream. Once located, visually inspect the connector and wiring. Look for scraping, rubbing, bare wires, burn spots or melted plastic. Pull the connector apart and carefully inspect the terminals (the metal parts) inside the connector. See if they look burned or have a green tint indicating corrosion. Use electrical contact cleaner and a plastic bristle brush if cleaning of the terminals is needed. Let dry and apply electrical grease where the terminals contact.
If you have a scan tool, clear the diagnostic trouble codes from memory,
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