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P0104: Mass or Volume Air Flow Sensor A Circuit Intermittent

Severity
Low
NHTSA Reports
2
Vehicles Affected
2
System
Powertrain

What Does P0104 Mean?

P0104 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Mass or Volume Air Flow Sensor A Circuit Intermittent. This code relates to the fuel and air metering system. It has been reported in NHTSA complaints across 2 different vehicle models.

Symptoms of P0104

P0104 Reports by Year

2015
1
2010
1

Real Owner Reports

From NHTSA complaint database — actual owner descriptions.

"ENGINE CUTS OFF WHILE DRIVING WITH NO WARNING. WON'T ACCELERATE WHEN GAS IS PRESSED. IDLE VERY ROUGH AT TIMES AND WILL SHIFT HARD AT TIMES. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND WRENCH ARE BOTH ON WHEN INCIDENT OCCURS. THROWING OBD2 CODES P2119,P0104,P2112. FORD FUSION SEL V6 3.0L 75K MILES. ALL SCHEDULED MAINTENA"

— Ford Fusion owner, 06/05/2015

"MY WIFE, THREE KIDS AND MYSELF WERE IN OUR 2006 FORD EXPEDITION LIMITED COMING DOWN A MOUNTAIN PASS IN LAKE TAHOE WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN THE ENGINE STOPPED! A CODE ON THE DASH READ "FAIL SAFE ENGINE MODE". THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED AND THERE WAS NO POWER, NO ACCELERATION. I WAS LUCKY TO PULL TO THE"

— Ford Expedition owner, 06/22/2010

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

Most Reported Vehicles for P0104

Based on NHTSA owner complaint data.

# Vehicle Reports
1 FORD FUSION
2 FORD EXPEDITION

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with this code?
You can usually drive short distances, but fuel economy will suffer and emissions will be higher. Get it diagnosed within a week.
Will this code cause my car to fail emissions?
Yes — any active check engine light will cause an automatic emissions test failure in most states.
How much does it typically cost to fix?
Depends on the root cause. Simple fixes like a gas cap ($5-15) to sensor replacement ($150-300) to more complex repairs ($500+).

What To Do Next

Possible Fixes

  • 🔧 Have the code scanned with a professional-grade scanner to read freeze frame data
  • 🔧 Clean or replace the mass air flow (MAF) sensor; check for vacuum leaks
  • 🔧 If DIY repair isn't feasible, get a diagnostic from a trusted mechanic ($50-150)
  1. 1
    Find your vehicle above

    Click your make and model for real owner reports and common causes specific to your vehicle.

  2. 2
    Check for recalls

    Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if covered.

  3. 3
    Get a professional diagnosis

    A code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. A diagnostic ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause.

Related Codes

P0100 Mass or Volume Air Flow Sensor A Circuit P0101 Mass or Volume Air Flow Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance P0102 Mass or Volume Air Flow Sensor A Circuit Low P0103 Mass Air Flow Circuit High Input P0105 Manifold Absolute Pressure/Barometric Pressure Sensor Circuit P0106 Manifold Absolute Pressure/Barometric Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance P0107 Manifold Absolute Pressure/Barometric Pressure Sensor Circuit Low P0108 Manifold Absolute Pressure/Barometric Pressure Sensor Circuit High P0109 Manifold Absolute Pressure/Barometric Pressure Sensor Circuit Intermittent P010A Mass or Volume Air Flow Sensor B Circuit