OBD-II reference

All 9.533 generic OBD-II codes, explained in detail.

Causes, inspection steps and sources — a comprehensive DIY archive. Created and maintained with love for the detail. Good luck and have fun!

Powertrain generic / SAE

P2281

Air Leak Between MAF and Throttle Body

The ECU detects unmetered air entering between the mass airflow sensor and the throttle body. The actual airflow into the engine is greater than what the MAF measures, leading to lean conditions.

SystemPowertrain
Typegeneric / SAE
GroupP2
Range / number2 / 81

Possible causes

  • Cracked or torn intake hose high
  • Loose hose clamp medium

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Power loss, hesitation under acceleration
  • Rough or unstable idle
  • Increased fuel consumption
  • Possible difficulty starting

Inspection / repair

  • Difficulty: easy
  • DIY: possible
  • Estimated cost: 30–250 €
  • Estimated time: 0.3–1.5 h
  • Component: intake duct
  • Component: throttle body
  • Component: mass air flow sensor
  • Component: intake hose
  • MIL / check engine light
  • emissions-relevant
  • drive cycle required

Sources

References

How to read OBD-II codes

The first letter names the vehicle system, the second digit distinguishes generic from manufacturer-specific, the remaining digits group fault area and number.

PPowertrain: engine, transmission, emissions
BBody: chassis trim, comfort, interior
CChassis: suspension, brakes, steering
UNetwork: CAN, control modules, communication