Cleaning the MAF Sensor

Note: Some people that would rather not disassemble the MAF sensor simply remove the MAF assembly and then spray down the tube with a aerosol cleaner. If you do this make sure the cleaner does not leave a lubricant behind.

A MAF sensor may require cleaning if oil were to become deposited on the sensor. An over oiled K&N air filter may produce this symptom.

If the Check Engine Light is on and has latched a code for the MAF then this is worth a try compared to purchasing a new MAF. I don't believe that under normal conditions the MAF requires a periodic cleaning.

You will need

• #20 tamper proof Torx bit.
  NOTE: The tamper proof bit has a hole in the middle of the bit.
• A cleaner made for electrical wiring that DOES NOT leave a residue.

Tamper proof Torx bit and the screw.

Disconnect the MAF plug.

Unscrewed the two #20 Torx bolts.

CAREFULLY lift the sensor STRAIGHT up. The wires inside are very small and fragile and fit down in to a tube in the MAF.

Now that the sensor is removed from the MAF tube move to a work bench or someplace where you have room to work.
NOTE: This is probably about the time the neighbor Vern shows up to see what you are doing. Something this fragile you will defiantly need to keep Vern away from. Even if he stays away from the work area he could still bounce a ball in the general direction. Never underestimate Verns abilities.

There is an O-Ring that seals the sensors from air entering from the sensor housing. You just want to make sure that it looks to be in good condition. There may be a small ring of dust you can wipe off.

Close up of the sensors.

Use the cleaner to gently clean the wires, if the cleaner is not a spray on, then use a Q-tip dipped in the cleaner to clean the wires.

After cleaning the wires you can Carefully set the MAF sensor back onto the MAF tube.

Tighten down the #20 Torx bolts to 5ft lbs and reconnect the MAF plug.

If you had a DTC code that turned on the Check Engine Light, you can either disconnect the battery for like 15-30 minutes to clear the code, along with all of your learned fuel trims. If the car was running poorly you will be able to tell immediately if this fixed the problem.

The Check Engine Light will turn out on its own after I believe it is, 3 consecutive COLD starts, if this fixes the problem.

Done