P1159 (Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Seat) Mass air flow sensors for 1/2 cylinder bank - signal ratio is unreliable
Content
P1159 – Technical description of the OBD-II fault code
Trouble code P1159 indicates an unreliable ratio of signals from the mass air flow sensors for 1/2 cylinder banks in Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Seat vehicles.
What does the fault code mean P1159?
Trouble code P1159 indicates a problem with the mass air flow (MAF) sensors on the first and second cylinder banks in VW, Audi, Seat and Skoda engines. This error occurs when the measured transmission ratio of the signals from these sensors is considered unreliable. In other words, the engine management computer cannot correctly interpret the data coming from the MAF sensors. In general, the P1159 trouble code indicates an important problem that can affect engine performance and efficiency.
Possible reasons
Trouble code P1159 can be caused by the following reasons:
- Faulty MAF sensor: The MAF sensor itself may be damaged or malfunctioning due to physical wear, contamination, or other reasons. This can lead to unreliable data entering the engine control module.
- Leak in the intake system: Leakage problems in the intake system, such as cracks or worn seals, can cause the MAF sensor to read incorrectly. An air leak may cause the volume of air entering the engine to be incorrectly measured.
- Faulty wiring or connectors: Problems with the wiring or connectors connecting the MAF sensor to the engine control module can cause data transmission errors. A poor connection or broken wire may result in unreliable sensor readings.
- Problems with the engine control module: In rare cases, malfunctions may be related to the engine control module (ECM) itself, which processes information from the MAF sensor. If the ECM is not working properly, it may not correctly interpret data from the sensor.
What are the symptoms of a fault code? P1159?
Symptoms for DTC P1159 can vary depending on the specific cause and extent of the damage, some of the possible symptoms are:
- Loss of power: If the data from the MAF sensor is inaccurate, the engine control module may incorrectly regulate the fuel-air mixture, which can lead to loss of engine power.
- Unstable engine performance: An incorrect fuel/air mixture ratio can cause the engine to run rough, idle faster, or even cause the vehicle to shudder while driving.
- Problems with launching: If there is a serious problem with the MAF sensor, the car may have difficulty starting the engine or may not start at all.
- Black or too white smoke from the exhaust pipe: Improper mixing of fuel and air can result in inefficient fuel combustion, which may result in black or too white smoke from the exhaust.
- Increased fuel consumption: Due to unreliable data from the MAF sensor, incorrect fuel distribution may occur, which leads to increased fuel consumption.
- Ignition MIL (Check Engine): The presence of P1159 in the engine control module may cause the MIL (Check Engine) light to illuminate on the instrument panel.
If you suspect a problem with the MAF sensor or code P1159, it is recommended that you contact a professional for diagnosis and repair.
How to diagnose a fault code P1159?
To diagnose DTC P1159, you can follow these steps:
- Checking Error Codes: First, you should connect a scan tool to read the error codes and make sure that the P1159 code is indeed present in the memory of the engine control module.
- Visual inspection: Inspect the MAF sensor and the wires connecting it to the engine control module for visible damage, corrosion or breaks.
- Checking the connection: Make sure that the connectors connecting the MAF sensor to the wiring and engine control module are securely connected and do not show signs of damage.
- Resistance measurement: Use a multimeter to measure the resistance in the MAF sensor circuit and check that it meets the manufacturer's recommended values.
- Checking for leaks in the intake system: Check for leaks in the intake system, such as cracks or worn gaskets, which could cause unreliable readings from the MAF sensor.
- MAF sensor testing: If there is any doubt about the operation of the MAF sensor, it can be tested using a special tester or by referring to the repair manual to carry out the appropriate tests.
- Checking the engine control module: In rare cases, the cause of the problem may be a problem with the Engine Control Module (ECM) itself. This may also require additional diagnostics.
If the problem persists after following these steps, it is recommended that you contact a professional auto mechanic or service center for more detailed diagnosis and repair.
Diagnostic errors
When diagnosing DTC P1159, the following errors may occur:
- Incomplete investigation of the problem: One of the main mistakes may be incomplete or superficial research of the problem. If only a visual inspection is carried out without checking all possible causes, essential details may be missed.
- Faulty MAF sensor diagnostics: An error may occur if the MAF sensor is not diagnosed properly. Incorrect testing or interpretation of test results may lead to erroneous conclusions about the condition of the sensor.
- Unaccounted for leaks in the intake system: If intake system leaks are not accounted for or diagnosed incorrectly, this can also lead to incorrect conclusions about the cause of the P1159 trouble code.
- Faulty wiring or connectors: Improperly investigating or ignoring problems with the wiring or connectors connecting the MAF sensor to the engine control module may lead to incorrect conclusions about the cause of the malfunction.
- Problems with the engine control module: If possible problems with the Engine Control Module (ECM) are not considered, this may lead to misdiagnosis and replacement of the MAF sensor unnecessarily.
To avoid these errors, it is important to carry out a comprehensive and systematic diagnosis, taking into account all possible causes, and refer to the manufacturer's manual.
How serious is the fault code? P1159?
Trouble code P1159 can be serious because it indicates problems with the mass air flow (MAF) sensors or related systems. A malfunctioning MAF sensor can cause the fuel/air mixture to be adjusted incorrectly, which can affect engine performance, fuel consumption and emissions. If a faulty MAF sensor is ignored or not corrected promptly, it can lead to more serious engine problems, increased wear on parts, or even failure. Therefore, it is recommended to diagnose and fix the problem as soon as possible to avoid further negative consequences.
What repair will help eliminate the code? P1159?
The repairs needed to resolve DTC P1159 may include the following:
- Replacing the MAF sensor: If the MAF sensor is identified as the cause of the problem, it must be replaced with a new or working one. When replacing, ensure that the new sensor meets the manufacturer's specifications and is installed correctly.
- Repairing leaks in the intake system: If the cause of the P1159 code is due to leaks in the intake system, the leaks must be found and repaired. This may include replacing gaskets, seals, or other damaged parts.
- Checking and replacing wiring: Faults in the wiring or connectors connecting the MAF sensor to the engine control module can also cause the P1159 code. In this case, it is necessary to check the wiring for damage or breaks and, if necessary, replace or repair it.
- Diagnostics and replacement of the engine control module: In rare cases, the problem may be caused by a faulty Engine Control Module (ECM). If other causes have been ruled out, additional diagnostics and, if necessary, ECM replacement may be required.
It is important to note that in order to successfully resolve the P1159 code, it is recommended that you contact a professional auto mechanic or service center who has the necessary equipment and experience to carry out diagnosis and repair.
