Mass air flow meter sensor cleaner or faulty

The faulty mass airflow sensor and how to fix the problem written by: nandy A vehicles MAF or mass airflow sensor, is the element that measures the density and flow of the air passing in to the combustion section.It assists the vehicles computer activate the air ratio to fuel.Also watch the video on how to clean MAF sensors without damaging the delicate part at the bottom. Here are some problems a malfunctioning senor can cause. A bad mass air flow sensor in a vehicle makes starting difficult and affects the performance of the engine because he engine-control unit uses data from the MAF sensor to balance the fuel ratio the injectors deliver to the engine. A bad sensor returns a significantly different temperature than that of the engine coolant when read using a scan tool set to temperature.The chemical that is used to clean the MAF sensor is completely up to you.

There is a large variety to choose from at your local auto parts store, or you can use rubbing alcohol from the grocery store for about a dollar.

How to Detect and Clean a Faulty Mass Airflow Sensor - CarsDirect

Vacuum leaks and other air leaks in the system can cause MAF sensor errors. If you have a crack or leak in your air intake downstream of the sensor, then the MAF will be sensing less air than the engine is actually receiving.

The Mass AirFlow (MAF) sensor is usually located between the air filter housing and the throttle. The MAF sensor uses a heated wire or filament to measure airflow into the engine. The first step in diagnosing a faulty MAF sensor is to perform my favorite test—the tap test. Using a screwdriver, lightly tap on the sensor while the engine is running, noting any changes in engine rpm or idle quality with each tap.

In the vast majority of cases, simply cleaning the MAF sensor does the trick. Consult your service manual for its location if you need help.

How to tell you got a bad MAF

A faulty mass air flow sensor has a devastating effect on an engine. Subaru mass air flow sensors often have issues with performance.