P0102 on a Mercedes-Benz: Causes, Fixes & Repair Cost

🟠 Moderate severity · drivable

You can usually drive a Mercedes-Benz with P0102, but the engine may run rough or use more fuel until the sensor is fixed.

What P0102 means on a Mercedes-Benz

On a Mercedes-Benz, P0102 means the mass air flow sensor signal is too low. The MAF sensor measures incoming air so the engine computer can set the fuel mixture. A weak signal usually means the sensor is dirty or failing, or the intake has a leak.

Is P0102 common on Mercedes-Benzs?

P0102 shows up on Mercedes models with higher mileage, especially C-Class, E-Class, and GLK models. Oil and dirt from the intake coat the MAF sensing element, which drops its signal. Cleaning the sensor is cheap, but replacement is often the lasting fix.

Commonly reported on: C-Class, E-Class, GLK, ML.

Symptoms

Check engine light on
Rough idle or hesitation
Stalling at stops
Worse fuel economy

Common causes

most common: Dirty or contaminated MAF sensor
common: Faulty MAF sensor
common: Air intake leak after the MAF
less common: Wiring or connector problem

How to fix it

Fix	DIY?	Typical cost
Clean the MAF sensor with MAF cleaner	Yes	$10–15
Replace the MAF sensor	Yes	$200–400
Replace the air filter	Yes	$30–70
Repair an intake leak or wiring	Mechanic	$100–300