The Mass airflow sensor, shortly known as MAF, is a type of sensor in the vehicle calculating the mass air flow rate entering the fuel-injected internal combustion engine. The MAF is vital to ensure a balanced and correct fuel mass is delivered to the engine. The engine control unit in the vehicle needs accurate information on the air entering the car to gain power efficiently. A failing mass air flow sensor will not be able to determine air flow rate and can cause internal damage. Therefore it is best to get the sensor replaced. It’s also important to know what to do after replacing mass air flow sensor.
How Does The Mass Airflow Sensor Work?
The mass air flow sensor is located between the vehicle’s throttle and air filter. It is one of the critical components of the engine system. The mass air flow sensor measures the amount of air and fuel. When the measurements are detected, it sends the necessary information to the engine control unit (ECU), allowing it to send a balanced ratio to the internal combustion engine.
Read How Long Can A Car Go Without An Oil Change Here
What To Do Before Replacing The Mass Air Flow Sensor?
Replace the mass airflow sensor in the vehicle. It is vital to prepare your vehicle prior. Below are a few steps to be followed before replacing the air flow sensor.
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Purchase the correct item Â
The mass air flow sensor differs from each vehicle and model. Finding the suitable sensor that fits your vehicle is important. Before you order a new Mass air flow sensor for your car, take note of the O-E number, original number, reference number, etc., from the old MAF sensor. Confirm the number with the mechanic or the supplier.
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Clean the air filter housingÂ
The air filter housing in the vehicle may collect dust, pollen, and grime over time because of the air time while driving. Due to poor filtration, other electrical components like the hot film sensor can be damaged. Therefore to extend the lifetime of the MAF, it is essential to clean the air filter housing. It is most recommended to use a vacuum cleaner to maintain.
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Clean the air hoseÂ
The air hose in the MAF is collected with oil and grime and can cause blocks. Cleaning the air hose of the MAF sensor before replacing a new one is essential for it to work efficiently.
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Keep the connector clean
The connector of the MAF must be clean to avoid any possible signs of corrosion. Corrosion can cause the newly replaced mass air flow sensor to cause errors and reduce lifespan.
What to do after replacing mass air flow sensor?
One of the most critical parts of the process when replacing the MAF sensor is knowing what to do after replacing mass air flow sensor, which will help increase the lifespan and the sensor to work efficiently for the engine. Below are the necessary steps listed on what must be done after replacing the mass air flow sensor.
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Disconnecting the battery
Wear safety gloves and goggles before following safety measures during the process. Turn off the engine, and disconnect the battery for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Disconnecting the battery in the car will help the car computer readjust to the new parameters after the computer factory resets. Reconnect the battery.
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Keep the vehicle idle.
Turn on the vehicle and let the engine idle for 20 to 30 minutes; this helps the vehicle to adjust well and run smoothly.
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Follow a maintenance schedule.
 To keep the mass air flow sensor free from errors. Keep the MAF sensors clean by spraying cleaners. You will have to remove the sensor and reinstall it to clean it. Replacing the air filter when it is too dirty and cleaning the codes are other ways to maintain the mass airflow sensor.
When Do You Need To Replace A Mass Airflow Sensor?
When your vehicle faces engine or fuel system issues, it could probably be because of a faulty mass air flow sensor. Identifying when your vehicle needs a mass air flow sensor is important and, if not, could cause further damage to the other electrical components in the vehicle. Below are a few signs your vehicle will show when you need to replace a new mass air flow sensor.
- Since a faulty MAF sensor causes an error in the airflow system, the engine shows trouble when starting. The engine might stop a few minutes after you start as a result.
- When accelerating, the vehicle might cause jerks and jolts or hesitate to increase the speed. Issues related to acceleration can be hazardous.
- It is normal for the engine light to ignite when any automobile parts related to the engine fail; thus, this is another sign of a faulty mass airflow sensor.
- Poor idling is experienced when there is an imbalance of air and fuel entering the engine, and due to this, the vehicle starts stalling very often.
- The car releases black exhaust smoke when the mass airflow sensor is damaged.
- A failing MAF sensor results in inaccurate measurement entering the engine, which causes poor fuel efficiency. The vehicle consumes and burns more fuel than normal days as a result.
The mass airflow sensor, also known as the MAF sensor, is one of the main electrical components of the engine and the fuel system, which helps to measure the right amount of fuel and air entering the engine.
How Long Will A Mass Airflow Sensor last?
The mass airflow sensor might last between 10,000 to 12,000 miles, but just like any other auto part in the vehicle, the MAF sensor has to be replaced over time.
How Much Would Replacing A Mass Airflow Sensor Cost
Replacing a mass airflow may cost between $120 to $250, depending on the model number and the vehicle. Sometimes the MAF sensor can cost nearly $400.
Conclusion
Understanding what to do before and what to do after replacing mass air flow sensor is vital. As previously stated, taking the necessary steps to maintain by cleaning the mass airflow sensor will help the sensor to work efficiently and increase the lifetime. Thus, it is recommended to clean the MAF sensor every six months.
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