MAF Sensor

[Philip54]

What is the mile interval replacement for the MAF sensor? My car has almost 110,000 miles and the MAF was cleaned at least one time using a product not specifically recommended for MAF sensors.  Should I consider it shot?

 

Also, is the correct Bosch part number 0280218009?  My car is a 2000 Carrera 2 coupe 6 speed.

 

Thanks

[Ahsai]

Usually it will make itself known if it's faulty so if you don't have CEL or other symptoms, I wouldn't worry about it.

[Hilux2400]

I cleaned mine with a specific MAF sensor cleaner at about 55K.  It comes in a spray can. I also did a diesel Toyota at the same time and noticed with both cars a mild improvement in fuel consumption.  The exposed sensor parts are very delicate so don't be tempted to use a brush, just se the force of the spray. 

[Philip54]

Usually it will make itself known if it's faulty so if you don't have CEL or other symptoms, I wouldn't worry about it.

I do have a P1126 error.  I understand that the most likely reason for the error is intake air system leaking, but before I get into a smoke test (that I can't do by myself), I would replace the MAF, if it has reached the mile replacement interval.  That was the reason for my question.  I have Durametric, if this can be used for checking the MAF and/or troubleshooting the P1126 error.

 

Thanks

[JFP in PA]

 

Usually it will make itself known if it's faulty so if you don't have CEL or other symptoms, I wouldn't worry about it.

I do have a P1126 error.  I understand that the most likely reason for the error is intake air system leaking, but before I get into a smoke test (that I can't do by myself), I would replace the MAF, if it has reached the mile replacement interval.  That was the reason for my question.  I have Durametric, if this can be used for checking the MAF and/or troubleshooting the P1126 error.

 

Thanks

 

 

There really is no prescribed mileage service interval for the MAF; they are a lot like light bulbs and either work or do not.  As Ahsai noted, if there is no MAF specific codes, just keep it clean and don't worry about it; it will let you know when it is time.

[Ahsai]

P1126 is most likely intake air leak as you said. Have you checked the oil filler tube for cracks? Is it very (too) easy to remove the oil filler cap?

 

You can monitor the MAF voltage using Durametric. Going by memory here...key ON engine OFF should be about 1.0v and idling warmed up engine should be about 1.3v.

 

Your Bosch MAF p/n looks correct per http://www.boschautoparts.com/

[Philip54]

Many thanks to all for the good information!

[JasonStern]

+1 on the MAF's lifespan not being mileage based. Mine started exhibiting problems after about 25k miles, but that was also 15 years. If you are unsure the age of your MAF and O2 sensors, replacing them is fairly straight forward and tends to be cheaper than paying a shop to try to diagnose the problem. Worst case, you have eliminated them as potential problems and now have a spare set of sensors.

[Philip54]

+1 on the MAF's lifespan not being mileage based. Mine started exhibiting problems after about 25k miles, but that was also 15 years. If you are unsure the age of your MAF and O2 sensors, replacing them is fairly straight forward and tends to be cheaper than paying a shop to try to diagnose the problem. Worst case, you have eliminated them as potential problems and now have a spare set of sensors.

Right now my engine light is off and Durametric is showing normal values for the MAF.  So I'm taking a wait-and-see attitude.  But thank you for your advise.

[JasonStern]

 

+1 on the MAF's lifespan not being mileage based. Mine started exhibiting problems after about 25k miles, but that was also 15 years. If you are unsure the age of your MAF and O2 sensors, replacing them is fairly straight forward and tends to be cheaper than paying a shop to try to diagnose the problem. Worst case, you have eliminated them as potential problems and now have a spare set of sensors.

Right now my engine light is off and Durametric is showing normal values for the MAF.  So I'm taking a wait-and-see attitude.  But thank you for your advise.

 

 

When my MAF was going out, it reported correct values as far as the Durametric was concerned. And pitching my indie repair shop the idea of "just drive around for 200-700 miles until something happens" wasn't something that they were too interested in. At first, I had the same self correcting MIL not illuminating a bit after a fault. But on a long enough timeline, the problem came back. And given how sensitive these motors are, I personally don't like the idea of running the motors too rich or too lean for an extended period of time.

 

That said, if this is the first time the code has occurred, I completely agree with clearing the code and seeing what happens. But taking the MAF out and cleaning it first might be cheap and easy insurance against the problem reoccurring.