Anyone have links to some previous posts regarding the MAF sensor. Or if you just want to answer me directly, that's fine too. I'm looking specifically for info on where it is located and how to clean it. I know I've read some posts in the past, but since the search function is disabled I just don't have the time to go searching. Thanks.

 

With the engine cool, spray the "filaments" with Carb-Medic or electrical contact cleaner. Let them air dry and you're done.
Don't touch the "filaments" as they are very fragile.

 

Thanks Dave. Do I need to remove it from the air intake, or can I just spray it down where it lies?

 

Just spray it as is, no need to remove it.

 

Is this just to clean the MAF? I have a code stating my MAF is bad. I think I need to replace it. I have a 2001 F150 with 93k. Should I try cleaning it first?

 

Yea, try cleaning it first. What is the code? Voltage too high? Voltage too low?

 

Not sure what the code is. The guy who diagnosed it didn't tell me except for that it needed to be replaced. I reset it and it took about 3-4 weeks for the light to pop on again. I had cleaned out the air filter tube and found a ton of leaves so I thought that might be the problem. I will clean the MAF and rediagnose soon. Is the MAF difficult to replace? Thanks.

 

Can someone tell me how to replace the MAF in a 2001 F150 4.2L V6? I'm sure it's simple enough but I would like to know for sure. Thanks.

 

Open the hood. Look at your air intake. Open the big round clamp that you normally open to change your air filter. Once that's open your are going to see a cone shaped thing thats the MAF. Twist it a little to unlock it, pull it then disconnect the the wiring harness from inside the air intake hose, don't unscrew any bolts on the MAF, the whole thing comes out.

Note: The symptons of a bad MAF and vacuum leak of similiar and they will set the same trouble codes, which is normally lean on both banks (Codes 171 and 174) so it might be a good idea to get the vehicle vacuum checked first. Part stores like AutoZone will tell you to buy a MAF, because they make good profits off the part, they want tell you it's important to check for vacuum leaks.

You can also try cleaning the MAF sensor first also with some MAF cleaner.

 

If I were you I would find out what the actual trouble code is. If it's trouble codes (100 thru 104) then you probably have a bad MAF. But if it's trouble codes (171 and 174) it might be something else. Autozone will read your codes for free. But I wouldn't believe everthing a parts person tell me especially if they are not ASE certified. I sold parts part time at Autozone and at a Ford dealership for a few years. Some people I worked with including some so called mechanics were clueless as to how the automobile systems actually worked.

 

I've already cleaned the MAF and reset the codes but I wanted to make sure if they came back. I also worked at AutoZone/Cheif Autoparts for a few years and know the drill. Thanks for the help!

 

So I replaced the MAF and reset. I'm just waiting to see if the Service Engine light comes back. $65.00 and 30 minutes of my time was well worth the effort rather than paying $350.00 at least for a garage to do the job.