185 Mass air flow sensor circuit voltage lower than expected
How to read it
Code 185 reads as 1 flash, pause, 8 flashes, pause, 5 flashes on the check-engine light. Jumper the self-test input to signal return at the test connector, then run the key on engine off self test and the running self test, counting the check-engine flashes each time.
New to flash codes? The OBD-I code reading guide walks through the paperclip method, code 12, and reading two-digit codes.
What does Ford code 185 mean?
185. Mass air flow sensor circuit voltage lower than expected. This code sets when your vehicle computer detects mass air flow sensor circuit voltage lower than expected.
Common causes of 185
- Intake leak
- Breather system
- MAF sensor
- ECM
How to fix 185
- Check for an intake leak
- Check the breather system for a blockage
- Test the MAF sensor and replace it only if it fails its own test
- Test the ECM last, only after every circuit test has passed
- Clear the code, then retest to confirm the fix holds