Would the air filter popping off throw a CEL?

[96gstdsm]

I was driving around and then I think I got fuel cut or something along those lines, most likely from a bad boost leak. I think at the same time a CEL popped up. I didn't really notice anything running weird at all. After a little while the idle got a little messed up. When I got home I noticed that the air filter had become disconnected. I put it back on and the idle was fine. Could that coming off throw a CEL? I wouldn't think it would as it is just filtering the air. I am installing ecu+ shortly so that comes with full diagnostics and such, so I am not gonna go get a logger. I am getting a new block installed starting tomorrow with all new fuel and turbo etc, so would like to get an idea if that could cause it or if I gotta start looking at everything else. Are there scheduled mileage or anything when it automatically sets one off?

 

[96gstdsm]

Anyone think it would? Talked to a few people and most people think it wouldn't. One dsm shops thought it might though. Anyone have any knowledge of that?

 

[surgeon_general]

did the air filter itself pop off or the filter along with the mas

 

[majik2k5]

If the entire air can itself popped off then yes, it will throw you a check engine light. Just the air filter popping off won't cause your CEL to come on, however, it's likely if the entire filter popped off that your got dirt and dust into the mass airflow sensor. If the aircan itself didn't pop off, and you're still getting check engine lights, run over to advance auto and pick up some airflow sensor cleaner and spray it down real good and let it dry, then give her a try.

 

[surgeon_general]

^^^ good advice.

 

[96gstdsm]

Ok thanks alot. Just the air filter itself popped off. Noticed it later in the day after the cel showed up, so I don't know if it had popped off before the cel or not. Just didn't know what else it would be. I'm not too worried right now, my car's in the process of a new engine and everything else also. If it's still there when I get it back I'll have to check into it some more. I'll try that cleaner stuff for sure if it still persists. I have ecu+ so that has a logging setup so I guess I can just check out what it is that way when I get my car back