BMW 530i Mass Airflow Sensor malfunction causing rough idle and power loss on BMW 530i

Submitted by wcraft · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some BMW 530i owners report experiencing issues related to a malfunctioning Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor, including rough idle and power loss. Symptoms of a bad MAF sensor can manifest as loss of power, slow acceleration, engine hesitation, erratic idling, misfires, poor exhaust emissions, and black smoke from the tailpipe. A dirty or faulty MAF sensor may lead to an incorrect air-to-fuel ratio, contributing to these performance problems. Additionally, rough idling can also be linked to a malfunctioning Idle Control Valve (ICV), which regulates idle speed. Improper installation of a MAF sensor can result in false readings, causing the engine computer to deliver incorrect fuel amounts and further exacerbating idle issues. Even after replacing the MAF sensor, some owners may still experience rough idle due to other factors such as low fuel pressure, a dirty throttle body, vacuum leaks, or incomplete MAF learning procedures. Proper diagnosis and maintenance are essential for restoring the vehicle's performance and addressing these concerns.

6 people reported this problem
2 comments
Schedule Repair

BMW 530i vehicles with this problem

Average mileage: 139,298 miles
(113,000 - 165,000)

Search for another problem

RepairPal Car Genius

Ask our experts about your BMW.

RepairPal Car Genius™ is a free resource for vehicle owners seeking advice on maintenance, auto repair, shop inquiries, estimates, and finding a trustworthy repair shop in your area.

 Auto Repair Expert Auto Repair Expert

Call us at 877-913-1554

Available 9am – 6pm ET Monday through Friday

Call Our Experts