This is redundant or obvious to most readers on here, but we still see
instances of folks writing about performance/driveability problems and
saying they have already ‘replaced the MAF’ -usually on advice of their
mechanic- and it made no difference or the problem came back.
1. Mass Air Flow sensors are expensive and usually arent the problem
after all.
2. They are far more rugged than most think, even though the elements
look delicate.
3. Since they dont really fail all that much, if you have a fairly
popular make, the salvage yards are full of perfect suitable
replacements… just have to match them exactly by numbers.
4. They DONT WEAR OUT.. but they’re sometime subject to electronic chip
failure.
Most PCM systems are designed to use an alternate-run paradigm if the MAF
fails.
So the BEST thing to do if you have a driveability problem is to
disconnect the MAF wiring connector. If the problem IS in the MAF,
you’ll likely see the engine runs better {remember it wont be as
efficient, and the CEL will light}
If it runs WORSE, the problem is somewhere else.
Instead of replacing it, CLEAN it first! Unlike the IAC, cleaning
usually fixes the MAF problem.
Codes shown on MAF: Think about what the code says.. if like "Out of
range" or no Signal: then the MAF or wiring to it is bad.
If it equates to "Too LOW output" try cleaning.
HOW IT WORKS: Measures air flow by tracking current needed to heat the
sense element; on dual element types, one measures ambient air temp,
outside the air flow.
Dirt on either is like putting heated mittens on a thermometer.
–
Yeh, I’m a Krusty old Geezer, putting up with my ‘smartass’ is the price
you pay..DEAL with it!