Engine keeps dying when gas pedal pressed softly.

[tattoosteve]

Aloha from Hawaii!!

So... I just got a 2001 xlt 4x4 automatic with 4.0l. It stutters and dies everything I push the gas lightly. I just replaced the fuel filter and the air filter. No improvement. Added "seafoam" too. I do have a check engine light but it has a "MAF sensor low circuit." I'm gonna try clean the sensor and clean the connector tomorrow. Any one have any ideas what could be the issue? I need this fixed asap cuz it keeps dying as I'm driving and I need the suv to drive my kids to school and go work. Thank you in advance.

 

[koda2000]

If your MAF isn't working correctly it will cause the issue you're experiencing. The MAF monitors/measures air coming into the engine and tells the PCM how much fuel is required to make the engine run efficiently. If the MAF isn't working the PCM doesn't know what to do.

 

[tattoosteve]

Thanks koda2000! I figured it'll fix it or at least help. Does cleaning the sensor actually help or should I just replace the whole sensor?

 

[1998Exp]

"Low circuit" won't be helped by cleaning. It's an electrical problem. Could be the sensor or something wrong with the wiring, like a short to ground, for example.

Does cleaning the sensor actually help or should I just replace the whole sensor?

 

[wcjeep]

My 99' would do something similar when cold. Once warmed up it was mostly ok. After swapping out the bad plugs and wires it slightly improved. The major problem was the intake gaskets. I think I paid around $27 for the gaskets. Swap wasn't too bad. Be sure to verify the torque settings on the bolts. I made the mistake of following the book instructions. Typo in the book. Not sure how long the job took. Had to drive around after the junkyard closed looking for a replacement bolt(screw).