MAP Sensor vs. MAF Sensor

Lets take a look at the differences between MAF Sensors and MAP Sensors found on your Audi or Volkswagen below.

What is a MAP Sensor?

Installed in or near the intake manifold, a MAP sensor is a sensor which detects the pressure found in the manifold. For any non-turbo cars (naturally aspirated), it helps detect the negative pressure found in the manifold, also known as vaccum. Now on a forced induction car (turbo or supercharger) it will not only track the vaccum but also the positive pressure in the manifold as well.

Since these sensors need to cover both vaccum and pressure, they can come in a variety of sizes.

What are the benefits of a MAP Sensor over a MAF sensor?

• If the intake pipe were to blow off or a vaccum hose leaks the car will not run on a MAF car whereas on a MAP setup, the car will not run any different as it is calculating off of the manifold pressure.
• Sensor reads the actual load occuring versus a calculated load from CFM as found in a MAF setup.

What is a MAF Sensor?

A MAF sensor is a sensor which measure the mass air flow which is the air that passes by the sensor and outputs the actual flow of air to the ECU.

What are the benefits of a MAF sensor over a MAP sensor?

• The amount of CFM entering the motor is VERY accurate. This can result in cars having better mpg’s.
• Most cars have a built in Air Intake Temperature sensor which allows you to monitor your actual air intake temps.