new member MAF Sensor help

[jdpate1018]

Today i started my vehicle on the way home and my check engine light was on. So on the way to the shop my expy stalled and eventually i made it to the shop. They pulled the codes and said it was lean codes, so the mechanic did a smoke test and found no leaks. He then told me i would have to replace the MAF sensor which is no problem for me to do myself. I was looking online to try to find a replacement part but they are all different from what is in my vehicle. any ideas?

 

[98EXPnSRQ]

What were the codes? A bad MAF sensor would throw a specific code. How about cleaning it first. That may be all it needs.

 

[GAINMOB]

welcome to the site

 

[mountainsurfer]

Had similar issue. Took the MAF out and cleaned it with CRC cleaner. Runs just like new. Sometimes if you have an oil soaked air cleaner like a KN, the MAF will get coated with a slight film of oil. Should be cleaned often. I do mine every oil change.

 

[tedennis]

Above posts are exactly right. The MAF sensor reads by heating a really thin wire. It then determines how much air is passing it by how much the wire is cooled down and how much amperage is needed to keep it at a certain temp. If this wire gets dirty or coated with oil from a filter, it will throw it all off. This can cause a lean code for sure.

I too would clean it first. You may be surprised. Most parts stores sell a spray can of either MAF sensor cleaner or electronics cleaner will work also.

If you do need to replace it, There will be a part number on the old one. Or should be. If not or you cannot read it, The part store should be able to give you the one you need. Most of them can cross reference the number you have, wether OE or aftermarket, to their brand.

Good luck.