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ulf Profi-Schrauber

Joined: 04/13/2002 Posts: 11058 Karma: +18 / -0 Location: Saarland 2023 MG ZS Premium Support
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18-11-2003, 17:57 Subject: HFLM 5: Still the same struggle? |
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Hello,
Based on the information I've seen so far about Bosch mass airflow sensors, it seems like anyone who buys another Bosch part as a replacement for the HFLM 5 should really consider switching to the DC-Pierburg alternative instead (provided its characteristics are reasonably compatible with their engine).
Has Bosch and/or VAG responded to this and are they offering more reliable MAF sensors that are compatible with the HFLM 5?
Or are they simply weathering the storm in their usual (arrogant) manner? Gruß Ulf
_________
MG4 Electric
Translated on 15-09-2026, 21:47.
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Albrecht Profi-Schrauber

Joined: 05/12/2002 Posts: 284 Karma: +10 / -0 Location: DD
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18-11-2003, 18:12 Subject: HFLM 5: Still the same struggle? |
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Hello Ulf,
Regarding DC-Pierburg mass airflow sensors as a Bosch replacement, there's once again an interesting article in Autobild. The problem (as in so many cases  ) is the expiration of the operating permit (ABE) due to the use of the "non-original part," even if there are no technical concerns.
It also stated that Pierburg is working on developing a "legal" Bosch replacement Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor for VW, which is expected to be released on the market soon for around 100 euros.
Best regards,
Albrecht. 01/01-08/08 Passat Variant 35i, 08/96, AFN, 94-283Tkm (5.Gg. defekt)
08/08-07/15 A6 (C5) Av. quattro 6-Gg., EZ 10/02, AKE 189-265Tkm (Kolbenriss)
07/15-09/17 A6 (C6) Av. qu. 6-Gg. 3.0 TDI, CDYC, EZ 05/11 180-210Tkm (verkauft)
08/17-11/17 A6 (C7) Av. qu 3.0 TDI comp.(leasing)
seit 2018 Skoda Roomster 1.6 TDI 5-Gg.
Translated on 15-09-2026, 21:49.
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Gremlin Guest
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18-11-2003, 18:38 Subject: HFLM 5: Still the same struggle? |
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I already posted before that the HFM-6 is in series production, and that they have taken the issues with the 5-series into account.
For example, a special airflow design can be used to direct particles and water droplets away from the sensor element.
The sensor element is also manufactured differently.
It's supposed to be *much* better than the 5th one...
btw: Work is being done on the HFM-7.
CU Gremlin.
Translated on 15-09-2026, 21:50.
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ulf Profi-Schrauber

Joined: 04/13/2002 Posts: 11058 Karma: +18 / -0 Location: Saarland 2023 MG ZS Premium Support
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18-11-2003, 18:47 Subject: HFLM 5: Still the same struggle? |
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Gremlin wrote: | I've already posted before that the HFM-6 is in series production, and that they have taken note of the problems with the 5er model.
For example, a special airflow design can be used to direct particles and water droplets away from the sensor element.
even the sensor element is manufactured differently... |
Hi Ralf,
Yes, that's correct - but back then, in my opinion, the question remained open as to whether the updated version was already available for purchase through normal spare parts sales (instead of the old HFLM 5). . .
Or will the HFLM 6 only appear in future engines, meaning that even drivers of the current HFLM 5 will be stuck with newly purchased Bosch mass airflow sensors? Gruß Ulf
_________
MG4 Electric
Translated on 15-09-2026, 21:51.
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Gremlin Guest
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18-11-2003, 19:02 Subject: HFLM 5: Still the same struggle? |
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Or will the HFLM 6 only appear in future engines, so that the unfortunate HFLM 5 drivers will also be looking down the barrel of a gun, even with newly purchased Bosch mass airflow sensors?
If I knew that...
CU Gremlin.
Translated on 15-09-2026, 21:53.
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diesel.gustav Guest
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18-11-2003, 22:15 Subject: HFLM 5: Still the same struggle? |
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Deleted upon request.
Translated on 15-09-2026, 21:53.
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ulf Profi-Schrauber

Joined: 04/13/2002 Posts: 11058 Karma: +18 / -0 Location: Saarland 2023 MG ZS Premium Support
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18-11-2003, 22:20 Subject: HFLM 5: Still the same struggle? |
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Albrecht wrote: | The problem (as in so many cases ) is the expiration of the ABE (approval) due to the use of the "non-original part," even if there are no technical concerns. |
Hi Albrecht,
typical German:
Even with a completely broken Bosch mass airflow sensor, the operating permit is not invalidated – even if it provides such low values that, for example, the (functional) EGR valve no longer opens.
But, of course, improving the situation to be close to the desired state through a third-party component is naturally illegal  .
Actually, in this country, you can usually rely on the following rule of thumb:
Anything that is fun or saves money related to cars is prohibited.
Quote: | | It also stated that Pierburg is developing a "legal" Bosch replacement mass airflow sensor (MAF) for VW, which will be available on the market soon for approximately 100 euros. |
Well, that would be a glimmer of hope – if Bosch doesn't sue and win.
When exactly is "soon"?
Best regards, Gruß Ulf
_________
MG4 Electric
Translated on 15-09-2026, 21:55.
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der_marco
Joined: 02/07/2003 Posts: 17 Karma: +6 / -0
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18-11-2003, 22:33 Subject: HFLM 5: Still the same struggle? |
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Regarding the specific question, I can't provide any helpful information. However, I will definitely get a new LLM (Linear Motor) before the warranty expires (2 years for the LLM). I'm currently on my fourth one at 155,000 km, and a device has been installed to prevent the "afterglow" of the heating wire. This doesn't really affect me much, because I now consider the LLM a wear item and treat it with a warranty.
Translated on 15-09-2026, 21:57.
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Marco Guest
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18-11-2003, 23:56 Subject: HFLM 5: Still the same struggle? |
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Hi,
That doesn't really affect me much, because I now treat the LLM as a consumable part with a warranty.
Unfortunately, VAG doesn't see it that way. As far as I understand, VAG is obligated to document every warranty case with a test drive.
Translated on 15-09-2026, 21:57.
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Julian Guest
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19-11-2003, 0:17 Subject: HFLM 5: Still the same struggle? |
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Unfortunately, VAG does not see it that way. As far as I understand, VAG is obligated to prove every warranty case with a test drive.
Hm, actually, it's great; then the guys will finally learn what the measurement values look like for a defective mass airflow sensor. Learning by doing. 
Translated on 15-09-2026, 21:58.
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Holger247 Schrauber

Joined: 11/05/2002 Posts: 259 Karma: +0 / -0 Location: Böblingen
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19-11-2003, 9:59 Subject: HFLM 5: Still the same struggle? |
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There are still a few things that are unclear to me.
1.) How can I determine what type of HFLM I have (part number)?
2.) Gremlin claims that HFLM6 is already in mass production, but diesel.gustav writes that we should stick with HFLM5 (even if it's an improved version)?
Will I eventually receive an HFLM6 as a replacement, or just an improved version of the HFLM5? Can you identify the improved HFLM5 models when you're at the parts counter? --------------------------------------------
GIV - 98 - ALH
Touran 5T 2.0 TDI
Translated on 15-09-2026, 21:59.
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Jan6K

Joined: 04/12/2002 Posts: 4741 Karma: +107 / -0 Location: Hagen
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19-11-2003, 10:14 Subject: HFLM 5: Still the same struggle? |
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Hi everyone,
Okay, how would you interpret those statements?
HFLM6 is already in production and is being installed in (new) cars that have a control unit compatible with HFLM6, as the performance characteristics and possibly the electrical properties are different.
All control units designed for the HFLM5 are not compatible with the HFLM6 and therefore rely on the HFLM5 or its improved version.
It would be interesting to see if the difference between the "5" and "5+" versions (let's call it that) can be identified by the part number, or only by certain characteristics.
Best regards,
Jan. 1Z5 CFHF  / AHB H4D 
Translated on 15-09-2026, 22:01.
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der_marco
Joined: 02/07/2003 Posts: 17 Karma: +6 / -0
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19-11-2003, 19:21 Subject: HFLM 5: Still the same struggle? |
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"Of course, before replacing a product under warranty, one would usually want to take measurements first. However, if a faulty design was installed, shouldn't that be the manufacturer's problem, or do you see it differently?"
I hope it doesn't come to a forensic investigation where they examine how the dust got onto the heating element.
Bye.
der_Marco
Translated on 15-09-2026, 22:02.
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diesel.gustav Guest
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20-11-2003, 0:52 Subject: HFLM 5: Still the same struggle? |
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Deleted upon request.
Translated on 15-09-2026, 22:02.
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Jan6K

Joined: 04/12/2002 Posts: 4741 Karma: +107 / -0 Location: Hagen
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20-11-2003, 8:40 Subject: HFLM 5: Still the same struggle? |
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Hi Gustav,
Thank you for the confirmation.
The details should ideally be evident from the images I mentioned (which I simply forgot to include), but there's something else I'd like to know:
"When did version 5+ start being installed in new vehicles? Or is it only used for replacements, and are new vehicles now equipped with version 6 from the factory?"
Best regards,
Jan. 1Z5 CFHF  / AHB H4D 
Translated on 15-09-2026, 22:03.
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Holger247 Schrauber

Joined: 11/05/2002 Posts: 259 Karma: +0 / -0 Location: Böblingen
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20-11-2003, 17:42 Subject: HFLM 5: Still the same struggle? |
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Can someone provide me with a link to images of Gremlins from HFM5+?
I couldn't find anything using the search function.
And Gremlin posts a little too frequently - it's hard to go through all of his contributions.
Thank you! --------------------------------------------
GIV - 98 - ALH
Touran 5T 2.0 TDI
Translated on 15-09-2026, 22:04.
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