Possible MAF issue

Timbo2 · May 22, 2013

Hi everyone, I think I may have a MAF problem, Im getting some surging and hesitation which seems to be getting worse. A few months back my opc said that they thought there might be an issue after they test dove it.
My question is, if I disconnect it to help isolate the problem an then later reconnect will it throw a cel, and if so will I need a code reader to clear it, secondly, can I clean it with throttle body cleaner.
Thanks in anticipation.

2000 2.7 tip with 80k miles

Richard_Hamilton · May 22, 2013

Getting the fault codes read should really be the first step. However - disconnecting the MAF should not cause a CEL on a UK car. If it does happen to do it, the CEL should reset itself after re-connection and a certain number of driving cycles (cold-hot-cold), usually 10.

You can try cleaning it with TB cleaner, but if it is the original MAF (with 80k miles on it) then I doubt you will revive it.

Timbo2 · May 22, 2013

Thanks Richard, no codes when I had it serviced about 3 months ago, Ill try cleaning but will expect to replace it.

C2dweller · May 29, 2013

Its worth getting a diagnostic test done first to ensure there are no fault codes logged. This should not cost too much.

We had a customer that did the 'unplug' test - the effect led him to believe the MAF was faulty. The problem was actually a throttle position sensor.

If you do decide to check & clean the MAF you will need a Security Torx Bit to remove the sensor and some patience if the fixings are corroded. Make sure you put it back in the right way too!

All the best, Lee

dermot62 · May 29, 2013

Hi, I had a similar problem with my maf. cleaned it in my ultrasonic machine no problems, of course I only dangled the wire bit in not the whole thing, that would be silly.

BartyB · May 31, 2013

Although many people, including franchised garages, use throttle body and carb cleaners to clean MAF sensors, it is apparently not good practice and only isopropyl alcohol should be used. I was told by a Bosch technician that coatings are applied to the sensor wire surface which can be affected by harsh solvents and cause early failure. Isopropyl alcohol is the only recommended solvent for cleaning.

Nick_USA · May 31, 2013

.... and never.... NEVER... use a brush!!!!

dermot62 · May 31, 2013

sorry, who said anything about harsh solvents, water with a little washing up liquid to reduce the surface tension of the water. The ultrasonic cleaning bath excites the water molicules at very high frequency thus causing high contact pressure on anything it comes into contact with. In turn it disintergrates the dirt particles and deposits them in the fluid. The process is used in industry, fantastic for cleaning all hard items not rubber or fabrics etc. Brilliant on carburetters disc calipers an stuff. Garages dont tend to have ultrasonic baths as they would just replace the items and charge customers!