One of the biggest issues I have seen car owners face is hard starts, rough idle, and hesitation when accelerating. Today, I will share with you expert knowledge on why the MAF could be the issue and how to clean the MAF sensor for proper airflow reading.
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How to Clean Mass Air Flow Sensor With MAF Sensor Cleaner
The MAF sensor measures the volume of air getting into the engine and sends the information to the ECU. If you don’t know how the sensor works, you can check this comprehensive guide. Usually, the air passing over the sensor has already gone through the air filter.
However, as dirt and debris accumulate on the filter over time, especially when driving in dusty conditions or using low-quality filters, some dirt particles can pass the filter and accumulate on the sensor.
Usually, this hinders the sensitivity of the film or hot wire in the sensor, making it unable to accurately measure the air volume. Fortunately, you can clean the MAF sensor using the following steps.
Locate the Sensor
The most straightforward way to locate your sensor is to check the car’s manual. If you don’t have the manual, you can use the following steps to locate the sensor, considering that it measures the air volume as it passes from the filter towards the intake manifold.
- Look for a tube leading from the top or side of the engine to the front of the car, typically towards the grille. Alternatively, locate the air filter box
- The MAF sensor is usually located between the air filter box and the throttle body. Note that on some vehicles, this sensor is attached directly to the throttle body
- The MAF sensor typically looks like a small rectangular or cylindrical component with an electrical connector. Usually, you will see wires leading out from it.
Disconnect the Terminal
The actual sensor element is usually housed inside a section of the intake that is a bit wider than the surrounding tubing. Switch the vehicle off and remove the key from the ignition so the engine’s computer doesn’t register error codes due to the missing MAF input.
Most sensors will have a tab or clip that needs to be pressed or lifted to disconnect the wiring harness. Press down on this tab while gently pulling the connector out.
In some cars, there might be a safety clip that you’ll need to remove before you can press the tab. Ensure you pull on the connector itself and not on the wires to avoid damaging the wiring.
Remove the Sensor From the Air Intake Tube
The sensor will typically be secured to its housing or the air intake tube with clamps, screws, or bolts. Depending on the design, you may need a flathead Phillips screwdriver or hex key. Loosen the screws securing the sensor without removing them fully.
If it’s a clamp-style holder, you’ll need to loosen the clamp enough to slide the sensor out.
Twist and pull the MAF sensor out of its housing or intake tube. Some sensors are secured quite snugly, so it might require a bit of gentle wiggling to free it.
Clean the Sensor
It’s advisable to clean the sensor using the recommended Mass Air Flow sensor cleaner, as other cleaning agents might leave residues or damage the sensitive components of the sensor. Whether your sensor uses a wire or film, you can clean it using the following steps.
- Before cleaning, visually inspect the sensor. If the wire or film looks broken or damaged, cleaning might not help, and the sensor may need to be replaced.
- Work in a well-ventilated area and wear safety gloves and eye protection as instructed on the cleaner can.
- Give the sensor cleaner a good shake before you start spraying.
- Place the sensor on a clean towel or hold it with one hand, and then spray the cleaner onto the wire or film element of the sensor. Do not touch the wire or film with any tools or your fingers.
- Spray liberally, ensuring all visible contaminants are washed away.
- Once you’ve finished cleaning, allow the MAF sensor to air dry. Do not use compressed air, as it might damage the delicate components. The cleaner is designed to evaporate quickly and without residue.
How to Clean MAF Sensor Without Cleaner
Although the dedicated Mass Air Flow sensor cleaner is the safest and most effective method, if you don’t have one, you can still use the following methods.
Clean the MAF Sensor With Alcohol
Dip a soft, lint-free cloth or a cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol. You don’t want it dripping wet, just sufficiently damp. Gently clean the wire or film of the sensor with a damp cloth or cotton swab. Again, do not touch the wire or film with hard tools or your fingers.
If you have a spray bottle that can produce a fine mist, you can fill it with isopropyl alcohol and gently spray, ensuring all parts are covered. However, be cautious not to oversaturate the sensor. Again, allow the sensor to air dry.
Clean the Sensor With Contact Cleaner
Contact cleaner is often used for electrical contacts, and some brands are safe for sensitive components. If you choose this method, make sure the contact cleaner is plastic-safe and doesn’t leave a residue. The procedure is similar to that of the alcohol method.
Final Thoughts
Generally, a dirty Mass Air Flow sensor can cause similar problems to a faulty one. Luckily, it’s easy to clean the sensor using the recommended cleaner and the above steps. Remember, if the film or wire is damaged, the sensor might need a replacement.
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