Is it necessary to check the MAF sensor and clean it from time to time - would this be part of the routine service schedule?

If so how would i do it and what sort of cleaner should I use?

:confused:

I'm probably going to be shot down in flames by everyone who's actually seen a MAF sensor, instead of just being aware of the theory - but here goes anyway:-

You only need to worry about the MAF sensor if you think there is some problem with the air filter, or if you want to tune your engine within an inch of its life.

It's basically a resistor (an electrical resistor, that is) which sits in the airflow. It gets heated by the current flowing through it, and gets cooled by the air flowing past it (i.e. the air intake to the engine). By measuring the cooling effect of the airflow, the ECU can calculate how much air is being fed to the engine - and therefore how much fuel to inject.

OK - that's enough of the theory. If your air filter isn't working properly (or of it's an aftermarket "oiled" filter), then the MAF will get covered with crud, which will affect the heating/cooling balance, and therefore its ability to measure airflow. In this case, cleaning the MAF will improve performance - until it gets dirty again. Best to tackle the problem of why it's getting dirty.

If the air filter is working, the MAF will stay clean(ish). If you're not interested in squeezing the last ounce of performance out of your engine, it's not worth worrying about.

Sensible advice Mike. The MAF is a sensitive instrument to be meddled with by the heavy of hand.

Wow, I understood every single word you wrote there Mike!

Excellent explanation, and highly recommended to go into the FAQ.

Thanks for the info KLB,

TBH I havent even looked at my MAF which may not need cleaning anyway.

The reason i asked about cleaning it, is that i have seen so many MAF failure problems discussed on various VAG forums.

My line of thinking was that regular check ups/cleaning could prevent any problems..

:cheers:

Apparently the MAF is failure prone just like the standard DV...only a lot more expensive.

Having just fitted a Dynatwist which is lightly oiled as opposed to heavily oiled like a K&N, I still intend to clean the MAF periodically as a precaution.

You can use Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) spray from Maplins (I think it's a tenner for 1l). IPA is used for PCBs and doesn't leave any residue or affect plastic.

Cheers.

Adrian.

Maybe this will help:

MAF cleaning guide

http://www.roadsleeper.com/maf.html

Moderator's Note: This very useful guide has been added to the Links section for ease of reference. DGW

Originally posted by vladimir in this post

Maybe this will help:

MAF cleaning guide

http://www.roadsleeper.com/maf.html

Thanks very much vladimir!

welcome to briskoda btw.

Vladimir, that is an excellent link . Welcome to the forums.