Cleaning a MAF: do it or not?

[NHarris]

I bought a MAF sensor for my X, it probably is dirty (last person who had it said it throws a code). So would anyone suggest I clean it or what should I do? If you say I should clean it what should I use?

 

[swetrid]

CRC makes a specific maf cleaner. You can buy it at autozone or advance auto parts.

 

[cfd911]

you can clean it with maf sensor cleaner , anytime your gonna use the cleaner you must follow these simple rules.

with the ignition off disconnect the wires to the sensor, remove the sensor
from the intake gently spray the cleaner through the the sensor,
i can't stress enough GENTLY SPRAY THE SENSOR, DO NOT BLAST
THE THE SENSOR, let it dry completely before installing ...

 

[NHarris]

Well I used carb cleaner, that'll work... Its drying and I wont be installing it for a while, cause I don't have money for my K&N intake yet. So there's plenty of time to let it dry

 

[techieman33]

DO NOT use carb cleaner it will leave a residue on the sensor and give you problems.

 

[willindsay]

I soaked the tip of mine in white vinegar. It worked really well. I'm pretty sure I read it on here but not sure who posted it.

 

[NHarris]

DO NOT use carb cleaner it will leave a residue on the sensor and give you problems.

Already did. So what should I do? Just go get some MAF cleaner and use that?

I soaked the tip of mine in white vinegar. It worked really well. I'm pretty sure I read it on here but not sure who posted it.

I may have to try that...

 

[EasyRhino]

Already did. So what should I do? Just go get some MAF cleaner and use that?

That's a big 10-4.

Yes.

Affirmative.

Yup.

In any language, do not use carb cleaner and then energize that MAF sensor.

 

[NHarris]

That's a big 10-4.

Yes.

Affirmative.

Yup.

In any language, do not use carb cleaner and then energize that MAF sensor.

Alright. Thanks :biggthump, I'll go and get that MAF cleaner tomorrow.
I read on the internet people saying you can use carb cleaner on the MAF so I figure I could use it... mistake on my part

 

[EasyRhino]

Alright. Thanks :biggthump, I'll go and get that MAF cleaner tomorrow.
I read on the internet people saying you can use carb cleaner on the MAF so I figure I could use it... mistake on my part

No worries, you were right to ask the question.

Heck, I've heard of people cleaning MAFs with gasoline.

 

[muzzymaniac]

You can use electrical cleaner too.

 

[NHarris]

I've heard of the electric cleaner. I wanted to make sure I was right in cleaning the MAF sensor properly. I made the mistake of using carb cleaner, but at least I can recover from my mistake. I've learned something new today and thats what counts.

Thanks to all for the suggestions! I appreciate all the input. Heck, if you have another way you clean a MAF sensor post it up, maybe my question can help others.

 

[muzzymaniac]

I've been using electrical cleaner for several years - before MAF cleaner was on the shelves. Never had an issue.

 

[NHarris]

I'll use MAF cleaner or Electrical cleaner. I assume either one would work just as well.

 

[matt0248]

I have used brake cleaner or carb cleaner sprayed on a Q-tip, then gently clean the filiment. Worked everytime. No issues.

 

[DavidS]

For anyone to automatically buy a replacement MAF Sensor before cleaning it and testing tells me they've got more money than sense. Once you figure out the scheme for removing it, buying the appropriate cleaner (CRC), cleaning it thoroughly and allowing it to dry thoroughly, reinstalling it, testing it and it still throws a code, should one consider spending upwards of $200 to replace one. I've yet to see one that has failed, they were only dirty and none had any visible fouling prior to cleaning as it tends to be almost microscopic.

Dealers love to replace these as they only take a few minutes to do and they make a tidy profit on not only the part but the labor by virtue of the owner's ignorance. Do use only MAF Sensor cleaner, it's not any more expensive than your typical electrical contact cleaner and you won't have to worry about damaging this rather small but significant part. I offer a service of removal, inspection, cleaning and reinstalling them for $50. After the customer realizes that the dealer will take them for upwards of $200 for a replacement since dealers will never offer the option of cleaning them, I make about $40 including my labor and the customer feels (rightfully so) that they've made a good decision in the maintenance of their vehicle. Should I feel guilty about this? I don't think so.

 

[NHarris]

I used electric cleaner on my MAF. Hope it works well, I will find out when I buy and install my Cold Air intake

 

[Joe Dirt]

I've used both the CRC MAF cleaner, and the Electric Parts Cleaner (below) and I've not had issue with either. Both are non-residue cleaners.