pookie

Ok I'm having a rough idle and going to clean the MAF sensor. I do NOT plan on removing the MAF. I'm just going to spray and hope the car runs in the morning. There are way too many threads on MAF cleaning and I need to know the preferred MAF cleaning solution. suggestions?

Thank you in advance.

RES

Some of your parts stores carry a MAF cleaner, or you can use electrical cleaner like a geek store might carry that leaves no residue. It's hard to clean it with out removing it because of the plastic screen in the way. If it was just the small metal screen I would say go for it. But this thing has both.

EnkeiDynamics

OK, so I just got scanned by a OBD tool yesterday at Auto Zone and it shot up error code P1101 or something like that "Check MAF sensor" something to that effect. Anywhoo, I'm curious as to what are we trying to achieve while cleaning the MAF....do I need to just spray spray, spritz spritz on the MAF with MAF cleaner? Or do I need to try and go as deep as possible into the intake or what? Like what kinda of things would cause the MAF to malfunction, that just cleaning it would fix? Are we talking about microscopic dirt or a leaf?

pookie

I was just going to spray it and let it dry overnight hoping it would fix my problems.

Fortuanetly, I took the car to the dealer under warranty and it seems they just replace the entire maf.

scottyballz

You can use a Q-tip to gently wipe the sensors, works better than just spraying.

I was able to take out the MAF, clean it, and replace it in < 30 mins. Its very easy with another set of hands to help and the right tools. I took the advice above and changed the pressure loaded pipe clamp for a screw/nut type clamp and its even easier now.

LILBENZ230

Okay there is a lot of conflicting information here..

Using CRC MAF cleaner, is it or is it not OK to clean the MAF without removing it from the car?

Glyn M Ruck

Fine not removing it from the car but might not be quite as effective.

grane

After it's clean add Techron every 3k miles to Shell93 or whatever the best gas you have.

splinter

Respectfully suggest you pull it out to ensure proper servicing.
There’s no rationale in sending VOC MAF solvents through the intake tract.


DIY M113 AMG shown


Although I exclusively consume so-called ‘top-tier’ fuel in my cars and trucks, it must be noted doing so has zero effect on MAF performance.

Glyn M Ruck

I think you are correct splinter - achieves a better job. The MAF cleaner going down the inlet won't do any more harm than starter fluid or sprays.

Fuel quality can have the slightest of effects on MAF fouling but can do nothing toward cleaning it. The fuel can't & does not get there.