Hollywood820

My mechanic contacted me today to let me know that my car needs a MAF, but he is not able to locate a good one. He found two used ones, but they were both faulty. As I have been searching for a new one, I have also been researching and it appears this particular year has had significant problems with the MAF. Is there any rhyme or reason to this? I also found some comments about cleaning the existing unit with an alcohol based cleaner. While I've got nothing to lose going the cleaning route, can anyone direct me to where I can find a new one? They seem to be quite an elusive item and I would like to be driving on the road soon.

Noir230

Have you tried ebay?

Hollywood820

Yes, have tried eBay and many other sites. Very surprised to see this MAF is no longer in production. However, I am hopeful that a member on this site will have a NOS in their garage and/or can send some info along about someone who may have one or any specific websites I should check.

Lee Wireless

https://www.pelicanparts.com/cgi-bin...escription=MAF

Hollywood820

Hi Lee, thanks for the lead. I called Pelican yesterday and they are out of stock. I am absolutely and utter amazed as to why MB would discontinue making this part. It sounds to me that once this part goes bad, it essentially renders the car inoperable. With only 68K, I dont want to give up on the car, but at the same time its collecting dust at my mechanic's shop and I dont have the time nor patience to part out the car (not should it be), but I am close to my wits end and may go that route.

Noir230

Are you only looking for a brand new MAF? I just saw 3 used ones on eBay?

Hollywood820

Hello Noir, thanks for weighing in. I scoured eBay, so if you know of any specific auctions that are specifically for a 95 SL 500, please forward the link if you don't mind. Unfortunately, the titles (and even some of the subtitles) suggests that the part is for a range of models and model years (inclusive of mine), but when you open up the auction and check the compatibility chart, it will say that the part is not for my car. Very frustrating to have to click on each and every auction to find this out, but that is how I began my search a few days ago. However, I completely appreciate that you looked.

Frank_S500

Hi, xxx.
Bosch (classic) offers refurbished MAF sensors in exchange...
Cheers, Frank

Hollywood820

HI Frank, thanks, but I checked there as well. Seems that they are available for models after 1995 However, if you find one for 1995, please let me know.

Frank_S500

HI xxx.
What is the part # you re looking for ?
Cheers, Frank

Hollywood820

Hi Frank, I can check the number on the MAF that was pulled from my car and let you know. There are two MAF's that were made for that year; one plastic and one aluminum (mine is the latter). At this point, I would try either one if I could find it, but the closest I have come is to this one,https://www.pelicanparts.com/catalog..._pg2.htm#item7. If you click "add to cart" you will see they are no longer available. When I called, they confirmed this as well. The part number I have been using is (Part #: 0-986-280-121-INT). Thanks very much for the continued dialogue, as perhaps you (or others) will be able to assist me locating one now that I've included the part number. Regards, Kevin

Frank_S500

Hi, xxx.

It looks like you have not given me no original MB part #, it looks more like a Bosch #.
My glasbowl also tells me the correct one might be A0000940148 which is the heated wire MAF sensor for the LH. So its the correct one for the refurbished part. http://www.bosch-automotive-catalog....uct/0986280121
Bad news is, currently nothing available on the german market.
The MB system says the refurbished part (€500+VAT) is currently not available (which ich good, since it indicates it will be available again, typically based on the # of pending orders)
My advice is to place the order at the dealer, wait, and if you have found a solution in the meantime cancel it, or keep it as garage gold for later use.
Cheers, Frank

Hollywood820

Hello Frank, thanks for your continued suggestions/guidance. I was originally doing my search just on the year/model of the car, but thanks to you, I am now searching by part number. I will get back to you if/once I am able to locate the part. Thanks, Kevin

Frank_S500

Kevin, In your inbox is a link ... one unit was left...

Hollywood820

HI Frank, thanks for sending along that link. The part is in the UK and the currency equivalency ends up to be about $550. After many hours and days of searching, I have now found two units, with the best of the two located here,http://www.lonestarautoparts.com. They seem to be a very knowledgeable and very reasonably priced salvage yard. Expecting to get the part within the next few days and hopefully on the road by next weekend. I will let you know how it all goes. Thanks so much for your support.