air flow sensor

[gj]

hi. i have a 2000 hyundai accent 108,000 miles. mechanic told me i needed an mass air flow sensor. dealer price $218 he says it's the only place tp get it. does anyone know of anywhere cheaper way to go? and how difficult is it to install? thanks.

 

[mcnabj]

Try and get a used one from ebay or a junk yard. Replacement is very easy.

 

[Kestas]

If you can take it apart, try cleaning it with electrical contact cleaner. But be careful, the sensor is very delicate.

 

[Matt_S]

With all due respect to mcnabj, this is one of those parts I would never buy used. It's too delicate. I like Kestas' idea better. 90% rubbing alcohol (as compared to 70%) with a Q-tip will also work. You need something that won't leave residue behind.

 

[kenw]

rubbing alcohol has oil in it.

if you are worried about residue, use pure isopropyl alcohol. But in this case, I don't think the oil in rubbing alcohol is a problem.

I would NEVER take anyone's word (especially a dealer's word!) that he is the only place to get it. Call some decent parts houses in your area.

 

[brianl703]

I've used two junkyard MAFs thus far (in Ford vehicles) without a problem.

I'd never pay more than about $35 for one, though.

 

[1sttruck]

Q tips could produce too much force, as many seem to be fine wire wound around a glass or ceramic core. I used a Testor's model paint brush, which worked fine as it produces very low force. Use some magnification to check cleanliness.

 

[michael harris]

definately try the cleaning route first, contact cleaner thats maf sensitive should do the trick if it infact isn't broken or anything. if it is try the junkyard route. usually the m.a.f. is in-line after the air filter somewhere but before the intake manifold so that narrows the location possibilities. just locate where the wires in that area go.. boom there it is....
44H

 

[mechtech]

When everything is together and running, Tap lightly in the area of the sensor and see if the engine stutters. This is a good, quick, test.

 

[gj]

autozone has one for $104,$30 core charge.only thing warehouse is out of stock. there are some online available i found around same price. the car idles rough after setting over night,then smoooths out after about 30 seconds. sometimes there is a slight "cutout" when in a pull.

 

[gj]

i found one,about $100 with core trade in.lifetime warranty.it looks easy to install,looking at where the it plugs in. i hate to ask a dumb question,but before i go prying on the plug in,can someone tell how to unplug it?looks like it snaps off,but not sure,thanks,george