Clean a Mass Air Flow Sensor
The mass air flow sensor is a crucial to many different aspects and functions of your vehicle. This sensor detects how much air is flowing into the vehicle’s engine, then uses this data and tells computer how much fuel to inject to keep a good air to fuel ratio. Overtime this sensor can become dirty from everyday dust particles, oil residue, etc. If you have noticed slight to major engine hesitations, stalls, and just simply your vehicle running rough, it could be due to a dirty mass air flow sensor.
Steps
- Locate the mass air flow (MAF) sensor. The MAF sensor is located on the long intake tube that runs from the airbox to the throttle body. The sensor will be positioned towards the airbox half of the intake tube. As for identifying the sensor, usually the mass airflow sensor will have the writings: “Air Flow” or “Mass Air Flow Sensor”.
- Remove the sensor from the intake tube. Push down on the harness clips attached to the sensor in order to detach it. Remove the airbox cover by pulling the clips up that are located on the side of the airbox. The airbox cover along with the mass airflow sensor assembly should easily lift up with a little bit of an upward pull.
- Spray with MAF cleaner. Hold the can of cleaner a few inches away from the sensor. Be sure not to touch the sensor. Spray the sensor completely, making sure all spots have been covered in solvent. Take care in avoiding contact with your skin, eyes, and lungs. Perform this in a well ventilated area. Allow 10-15 minutes to pass or until the sensor is completely dry.
- Reconnect the intake hose, the Airbox, the wiring, screws, and the harnesses. The clamps should be tightened down the way they were originally.
- Make sure any/all warning lights have been turned off, and make sure idling is correct while in the vehicle.
- Finished. Overall, cleaning your MAF will help you out in the long run. Taking care of your car includes cleaning out that MAF sensor of yours. Not only are you saving money but you’re increasing the life of your vehicle as well!
- MPG will go up as a result of cleaning it! Because your MAF communicates with your car’s computer how much fuel to use, cleaning your MAF will increase your car’s fuel efficiency.
- It allows for a smoother ride. It prevents rough idling, stalling, or acceleration problems.
- It allows you to save money and increases overall car performance. Avoid replacing your MAF sensor by cleaning regularly Replacement could cost $300+.
Tips
- Keep cleaning the sensor. It is recommended to clean your MAF every time you change your air filter.
