Air Flow Meter/Sensor: Testing and Inspection

2005 Mitsubishi Lancer L4-2.0L SOHCSECTION Testing and Inspection
INSPECTION PROCEDURE USING AN OSCILLOSCOPE

VOLUME AIRFLOW SENSOR

Required Special Tool:
MB991709: Test Harness Set

Measurement Method




1. Disconnect the volume airflow sensor connector, and connect the test harness special tool (MB991709) in between. (All terminals should be connected.)
2. Connect the oscilloscope probe to volume airflow sensor connector terminal No.3.

Alternate method (Test harness not available)



1. Connect the oscilloscope probe to ECM terminal No.90.



1. Connect the oscilloscope probe to PCM terminal No.65.




Standard Wave Pattern:




Standard Wave Pattern

Wave Pattern Observation Points

Check that cycle time T becomes shorter and the frequency increases when the engine speed is increased.

Examples of Abnormal Wave Patterns

Example 1

Cause of problem
- Sensor interface malfunction.

Wave pattern characteristics
- Rectangular wave pattern is output even when the engine is not started.




Example 2

Cause of problem
- Damaged rectifier or vortex generation column.

Wave pattern characteristics
- Unstable wave pattern with non-uniform frequency. An ignition leak will distort the wave pattern temporarily, even if the volume airflow sensor is normal.

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.