P2280 moderate

Air Flow Restriction/Air Leak Between Air Filter and MAF Sensor

The P2280 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Air Flow Restriction/Air Leak Between Air Filter and MAF Sensor. This is a moderate severity code.

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Keep driving?: Yes, but fix soon
DIY difficulty: easy
Estimated cost: $10 - $200 (parts and labor)

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Common Symptoms

Check Engine Light on
Rough idle
Poor acceleration
Unusual engine sound
Decreased fuel economy

Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)

Air filter housing not properly sealed or latched Very High
Cracked air filter housing or intake duct before the MAF High
Air filter installed incorrectly or wrong size Moderate
Severely clogged air filter causing restriction Moderate
Aftermarket air intake not sealed properly Low

Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure

Inspect the air filter housing for proper closure and latching
Check the intake duct between the air filter and MAF sensor for cracks
Verify the air filter is the correct size and properly seated
Replace the air filter if excessively dirty or restricted
If aftermarket intake is installed, verify all connections are airtight

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does a leak before the MAF sensor matter?

Air entering between the air filter and MAF sensor bypasses the sensor. The ECM does not account for this extra air, which disrupts the air-fuel ratio calculation.

Can a loose air filter lid cause P2280?

Yes, if the air filter housing is not properly latched or sealed, unfiltered and unmeasured air can enter the intake tract before the MAF sensor.

Is P2280 easy to fix?

Often yes. Many cases are resolved by simply re-seating the air filter, latching the housing correctly, or replacing a cracked duct -- all of which are typically easy DIY repairs.