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Mass Air Flow Sensor Problems?

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71K views 36 replies 9 participants last post by  aquanaut20  
#1 ·
I recently cleaned and re-oiled my K&N air filter and suddenly I'm getting some rough idling and occasional roughness in low gears. I've cleaned the Mass Air Flow sensor (2x with MAF specific cleaner) and no change. I also cleaned my Idle Air Control valve just to make sure it was not that; no change.
Could the MAF be going bad or is the air filter over oiled and getting on the MAF sensor?:confused:

I have not tried driving a short distance with no filter to see if it makes a difference but can if it will not harm the engine or MAF sensor.

FYI: All plugs, wires, coils, filters, exhaust, 02, timing belt etc are all recently new so I've eliminated those possibilities.
 
#2 ·
The MAF has no wearing parts, so if it is not responding correctly it's more likely to do with the contamination.
I would expect that it should be recoverable using good non-residue MAF cleaning spray, so not sure why it hasn't in your case.

Personally I'd give it a good clean, and follow up with a short test run without the filter if not in a dusty environment, and see how it goes from there.

Is the non-OEM air filter the only MOD to your intake ?
 
#4 · (Edited)
He simply OVER oiled the filter, or ran the vehicle right after oiling. It has to sit and dry a little before use. Its one or the other. Simply it was fine before he cleaned and oiled the filter. So this happened right after cleaning I assume. This is a very common occurance. When cleaning and oiling reusable filters, you need to follow the directions. Over oiling is easy and you have to make time for drying time also. Some go ahead and clean /oil filter and right after get in the car and drive it. Big NO NO.
Like mentioned clean the maf with maf cleaner. But most of the time, you cannot get the oil off the sensor. Oil cannot be cleaned off that well.

Hope thats not the case, mafs are rather expensive.
 
#5 ·
Update: Ran the car without the air filter and not much change.
Note: When originally cleaned, it dried over night, then oiled and sat for at least 3 hours. I didn't think I over oiled but maybe. Will try to clean again with the MAF cleaner. Is there anything else I could use other than MAF cleaner to get any possible oil off the filament?
 
#9 · (Edited)
I would assume so IF indeed it is the maf. Would be a good point to start by getting it scanned for free at autozone or advanced.

Do these have an IAT (intake air temp)sensor also like the sephias? If so try cleaning that also with the maf cleaner. These are after the filter also usually on or right after air box. These would cause this issue. I once ago pulled a wire off mine in the old sephia when trying to make it longer to reach cai same issue.
 
#12 · (Edited)
Wow, they sure have dropped in price.

Please share the link to that good deal.


Many don't have an understanding of the difference between a code reader and a scanner.


My car doesn't have the standard OBDII port, only the (DLC) Diagnostic port in the engine compartment - I should be able to make and interface connector.
 
#15 · (Edited)
RON is 100% correct. Most do not distigush the differnce between code "readers" and actual OBD2 readers that check all Live data. Your 58 dollar model is not a whole setup, your will only read "codes" not live data. There is a HUGE difference. There is no way you got a real obd II full reader system for that price.
YOu cant even use your reader when car is on, just in acc. postition. With a full obd reader you do live data with car ON, tell you what almost every sensor is currently doing, yours I know for that pice, cannot do that.

Cheap ones cost upwards of 1000 dollars. USED. A new snap on one that shops use cost about 3-4K dollars. Ask my mechanic, and its nothing you can get on ebay. Like your 50 dollar CODE READER. Do not take offense there just is a difference between the 2 systems.
 
#17 · (Edited by Moderator)
I don't make a habit of flaming people but as a super moderator you should be ashamed at attaching your pen to the above quoted post... You should be beyond reproach..

You need to get your facts straight before spouting false information.. 95% of what you just quoted is not true. This is a bonified live data scanner, not a code reader....

The major difference between this $58.00 unit and the $1000.00 unit is $942.00. Yes the $1000.00 unit can access mfg specific PIDS and accessories like ABS and airbags, but not without the additional modules.($$$).. Having said that most shade tree mechanics do not need or desire such units..

I have used mine for several months and know and can testify to its abilities... I have monitored all my stats while driving, it has been consistent in displaying the current condition and values of the sensors. even has a record function that can download via PC...... have you put your money where your mouth is???

People like you, who make statements without fully checking the facts are dangerous.. Philip

NOTE: I have no connection with the manufacturer or any supplier of this unit, just a user.. Philip
 
#19 ·
OBD2 Codes Explained

OBD-II codes consist of a number of parts. Here is a sample OBD2 code:

P0171

Here is a breakdown of what each digit of the code means:
First Character - System

The first character identifies identifies the system related to the trouble code.

P = Powertrain
B = Body
C = Chassis
U = Undefined

Second Digit - Code Type

The second digit identifies whether the code is a generic code (same on all OBD-II equpped vehicles), or a manufacturer specific code.

0 = Generic (this is the digit zero -- not the letter "O")
1 = Enhanced (manufacturer specific) not covered by generic scanner, requires MFG enhanced pids
Third Digit - Sub-System

The third digit denotes the type of sub-system that pertains to the code

1 = Emission Management (Fuel or Air)
2 = Injector Circuit (Fuel or Air)
3 = Ignition or Misfire
4 = Emission Control
5 = Vehicle Speed & Idle Control
6 = Computer & Output Circuit
7 = Transmission
8 = Transmission
9 = SAE Reserved
0 = SAE Reserved

Fourth and Fifth Digits

These digits, along with the others, are variable, and relate to a particular problem. For example,a P0171 code means P0171 - System Too Lean (Bank 1).
 
#21 ·
For those that are interested in monitoring OBDII DATA.

I ran a 12hr road trip today and monitored the wife's Suzuki with a $19.00 Elm327 Bluetooth dongle, and a HTC Dream smartphone, Android 1.5, with Torque (app).. amazing and cheap (except for phone)...

Phone connected immediately with the BT once paired and then connected to the built in GPS... Philip
 
#24 · (Edited)
Just so the forum can decide on your actions about me calling you on your stating untruths as fact and now using you position as a "super moderator" and editing my post.

You should understand the US Constitution and the freedom of expression and press.

If you did not like or condone the comment about the untruthfulness of your evaluation of the "SCANNER" you should supply factual evidence, not censor the post...

Quote from pm
I would like to point out that your attitude was not needed. I simply said, your unit was not a full reader and you go off basically saying names ect to me which is not part of the rules here.

If you read my whole post, you would have seen that it says, please do not take offense as I was not having an attitude. YOu cant know someones expression by reading a post on the internet.

I edited out the "bashing" that i saw in that thread.

I did not personally attach you, you should not do that either because someone disagrees with you.
You did , by the way try to discredit my evaluation of a unit that I have, and have used, using anecdotal 3rd party comments from your mechanic who most likely has not seen, and certainly not used the subject unit (Intimating I was not being truthful).

You also gloated that you dont need such "cheap" units as your car runs perfect and if needed you will go use a scanner.

You call this not being personal affront, bashing and an attempt to ridicule me??
Mony where my mouth is, dude, you bought th cheap unit not me.
Is that link your obd reader? That is just a code reader, and that is it.
LOL where is the display that shows you all the data of the sensors?
LOL, show me your obd tool then not a link, hook it up with a video of yourself using it and show us what your scanner is saying.
NOTE all the LOL!
I dont want to see a youtube video, like to see your scanner..
My original post was to provide a reasonable solution to members that dont have "Perfect runners" and dont have the advantage of the use of a "Scanner".

I dont see the need for you to scoff at their misfortune.......

BTW, prior to my retirement I was responsible for the running of a fleet of RESCUE VEHICLES (volunteer teams) and they also had perfectly running vehicles..... Without a $4000.00 scanner......Philip
 
#25 ·
Just so the forum can decide on your actions about me calling you on your stating untruths as fact and now using you position as a "super moderator" and editing my post.

You should understand the US Constitution and the freedom of expression and press.

If you did not like or condone the comment about the untruthfulness of your evaluation of the "SCANNER" you should supply factual evidence, not censor the post...

Quote from pm
Quote:
I would like to point out that your attitude was not needed. I simply said, your unit was not a full reader and you go off basically saying names ect to me which is not part of the rules here.

If you read my whole post, you would have seen that it says, please do not take offense as I was not having an attitude. YOu cant know someones expression by reading a post on the internet.

I edited out the "bashing" that i saw in that thread.

I did not personally attach you, you should not do that either because someone disagrees with you.
You did , by the way try to discredit my evaluation of a unit that I have, and have used, using anecdotal 3rd party comments from your mechanic who most likely has not seen, and certainly not used the subject unit (Intimating I was not being truthful).

You also gloated that you dont need such "cheap" units as your car runs perfect and if needed you will go use a scanner.

You call this not being personal affront, bashing and an attempt to ridicule me??
Quote:
Mony where my mouth is, dude, you bought th cheap unit not me.
Quote:
Is that link your obd reader? That is just a code reader, and that is it.
LOL where is the display that shows you all the data of the sensors?
Quote:
LOL, show me your obd tool then not a link, hook it up with a video of yourself using it and show us what your scanner is saying.
NOTE all the LOL!
Quote:
I dont want to see a youtube video, like to see your scanner..
My original post was to provide a reasonable solution to members that dont have "Perfect runners" and dont have the advantage of the use of a "Scanner".

I dont see the need for you to scoff at their misfortune.......

BTW, prior to my retirement I was responsible for the running of a fleet of RESCUE VEHICLES (volunteer teams) and they also had perfectly running vehicles..... Without a $4000.00 scanner......Philip
I will wait to see how you censure me this time... Philip
 
#26 ·
Personal attacks are not tolerated period and I took it that way since it was directed at me.
So where is that video? LOL
I will delete a personal attack towards me, or any other member, or another moderator.

There is a rule that no personal attacks directed at any member is not tolerated.
Its not the first amendment issue you attacked and its our rule, no attacking, bashing other members PERIOD., READ THE FORUM RULES. I took it as an attack, so be it.
If I attacked you, ask a mod to delete the attack.

If a TRUE ONE is that cheap, you won't mind showing us it in action. Hell for that price I might just pick one up.

Thanks
 
#28 ·
Uhh...ok...so anyway....for those that are wondering about or having MAF trouble still, here is the result:
  • Cleaned MAF a third time
  • Cleaned IAT on air filter housing just in case
  • Cleaned IAC....again
  • Made sure air filter assembly/housing was attached secure
Just did a 5 hour round trip and no problems, nor any problems in stop and go traffic today. Also was on many dirt roads on the trip in dusty conditions and everything ran fine.
My conclusion is that I over oiled the K&N filter and gunked up the MAF a little and the third cleaning did the trick.

PS: 22.6mpg highway with four people a dog, rooftop carrier and lots of camping gear...A/C running. Thanks electric fan. Would like to try that trip with no kids, no dog and no gear to see how it does. Mostly just without the crying kids.:D
 
#33 ·
Here is one for approximately $150.

Racing Car Digital Speed Meter Water Temp Voltage Gauge | eBay

There are also both iPhone and Android apps that will do the same thing - all you need is an iPhone, iPod, or iPad or Android phone or tablet and a bluetooth dongle for the port. The apps are low price or FREE.
I'm sorry the days are gone when you need to spend $1000 for this stuff, unless you are a professional workshop.
 
#35 ·
Just today I had a drive-ability issue, 2 min with my phone and Torque revealed that my IAT(Intake Air Temp) sensor was registering 60*f cold instead of 50*f (coolant temp,cold) and remained stagnant while engine warmed up.

Removed IAT, cleaned probe and electrical connections, reconnected, values now recorded correctly, drive-ability issue resolved...... Philip