How to Clean Mass Air Flow Sensors

A mass air flow (MAF) sensor is essential for maintaining fuel efficiency and overall engine performance. If dirt or debris has caused your MAF sensor to become clogged, then your vehicle may be experience reduced gas mileage or excessive engine noise. To restore your vehicle to proper working order, it is recommended that you replace the component with a new one. However, if you're trying to save a few bucks, you can clean out your clogged MAF sensor instead.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver Electrical contact cleaner

Instructions

1. 

   Pinpoint your engine air box. If you don't know what your air box looks like, consult an engine guide for your specific vehicle make and model.

2. Open up the air box and locate the mass air flow sensor. Feel free to carefully move the entire assembly around if necessary.

3. Disconnect the MAF sensor. Typically, they are held in place by several metal tabs and a wiring harness. Pop the tabs with your screwdriver and gently pull the sensor until it unplugs from the harness.

4. Use your screwdriver to open up the MAF sensor assembly. There should be two screws.

5. Spray the electrical contact cleaner thoroughly over the interior wires of the sensor. Be careful not to touch any of the wires, as they are very delicate.

6. Let the MAF sensor completely dry out.

7. Carefully reattach the mass air flow sensor assembly and reinstall it into the air box.

Tips & Warnings

• The MAF sensor is an extremely delicate electrical device. As such, you should take great care during each step of the cleaning process to reduce the possibility of damage.