Chevrolet Trax Mass Air Flow Sensor: A Guide for 2013-2024 Models
Is your Trax running rough or losing fuel economy? Your Mass Air Flow sensor could be the problem.
- You MUST confirm if you have a 1st Gen (2013-2022) or 2nd Gen (2024+) Trax before buying, as the parts are different.
- A bad MAF sensor will cause a Check Engine Light, poor acceleration, rough idle, and bad gas mileage.
- Replacement is a simple DIY job that takes less than 30 minutes with basic tools.
- Premium aftermarket brands like Bosch, Delphi, and ACDelco offer OEM-level quality for less money.
Is My MAF Sensor Failing?
A dirty or failing Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor can cause noticeable problems in your Chevrolet Trax. Because the sensor provides bad information to the engine's computer, you might experience a range of issues from annoying to serious. Common symptoms include a rough idle, hesitation or jerking when you accelerate, poor gas mileage, and in some cases, the engine may stall or be hard to start. The most common sign is the Check Engine Light turning on.
Generation Gap: A Critical Detail for Trax Owners
The Chevrolet Trax has two distinct generations that use different engines and, therefore, different MAF sensors. Before ordering a part, you must know which generation you own.
- First Generation (2013-2022): These models typically use a 1.4L Turbo engine. 🎬 Watch: Step-by-step MAF sensor replacement for first-gen Trax models.
- Second Generation (2024-Present): After skipping the 2023 model year, the Trax was redesigned with a 1.2L Turbo engine. 🎬 See how to service the MAF sensor on newer 1.2L engines.
Ordering a sensor for the wrong generation will not work. Always verify the part fits your specific model year and engine.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket MAF Sensor
When replacing your MAF sensor, you don't have to buy the expensive OEM part from a dealer. Quality aftermarket brands offer a great balance of performance and value. Aftermarket sensors are often made to the same standards as the original parts but at a better price. Here’s a breakdown of available brands:
- Premium Brands (OEM Quality): ACDelco is GM's own parts brand, offering both original equipment and quality aftermarket versions. Bosch and Delphi are global leaders who often manufacture the original parts for carmakers. These brands are known for their reliability and precise calibration, making them a top choice for a long-term repair.
- Trusted Aftermarket Brands: Brands like Spectra Premium, Standard Motor Products (SMP), and Walker Products have a strong reputation in the aftermarket. They produce new, not remanufactured, sensors that are tested to meet or exceed original specifications.
- Value-Oriented Brands: Companies like Cardone, DriveWire, and Global Parts provide more budget-friendly options. While they can be a good choice to save money, it's important to ensure you're getting a new part, not a remanufactured one, for the best reliability.
Should I Clean My MAF Sensor?
You might see suggestions to clean your MAF sensor with a special spray. While this can sometimes work as a temporary fix if the sensor is just dirty, it often fails to solve the underlying problem. If the sensor's delicate electronics are failing, cleaning won't help. For a permanent solution, replacement is the best option.
Cost to Replace a Chevrolet Trax MAF Sensor
The cost depends on the part you choose and whether you do the work yourself. The job is simple enough for most DIY mechanics. A shop will likely charge a minimum labor fee, typically 0.5 to 1 hour of work.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $64 - $182 |
| New OEM Part | $105 - $216 |
| Shop Labor | $49 - $95 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $234 - $307 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install a MAF sensor myself?
Yes, this is a very DIY-friendly repair. The MAF sensor is located on the engine's air intake tube, right after the air filter box. It is typically held in by two screws and has one electrical connector. The entire job can usually be done in under 30 minutes with basic hand tools.
What causes a MAF sensor to fail?
The most common reason for failure is contamination. Dirt, oil, or moisture can coat the delicate sensing wire, causing incorrect readings. This can happen if the engine air filter is dirty or not installed correctly. Over time, the electronics inside the sensor can also simply wear out.
What are the error codes for a bad MAF sensor?
The most common trouble codes are P0101 (Mass Air Flow Circuit Range/Performance) and P0102 (Mass Air Flow Circuit Low Input). A P0101 code means the sensor's readings are out of the expected range, which could be caused by a vacuum leak or a dirty sensor. A P0102 code points more directly to a faulty sensor or a wiring issue.
🎬 Watch this guide to testing and replacing sensors for these codes.Is an ACDelco part the same as the GM original?
It can be. ACDelco has different product lines. "ACDelco GM Original Equipment" is the exact same part that was installed at the factory. Other ACDelco lines are high-quality aftermarket parts that meet GM's standards but may be sourced from different suppliers. Both are considered reliable choices.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 12671624 12714453 13432262 13505433
The MAF sensor for the Chevrolet Trax is a 'hot-wire' or 'hot-film' type sensor that is typically sold as the sensor element only, without the housing. It uses a rectangular electrical connector. The first generation (2013-2022, 1.4L engine) commonly uses part number 12671624, which cross-references to Bosch 0280218419. The second generation (2024+, 1.2L engine) uses a different part, such as 12714453.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Chevrolet Trax: