My 4x4 Octy 1.8t (39K) has been running like a dog, and then last week, engine management warning light comes on, struggles to start in the morning, and then sometimes, when re-starting after the engine was warm, would 'idle' at 2000rpm.

A quick search on the web pointed at the MAF sensor, so I thought I'd whip it out and wipe it (ooh err missus). Got a T20 security driver and some contact cleaner today, whipped it out (make sure you let it cool down first!), gave it 2 or 3 squirts with contact cleaner into the aperture at the end where you can see the platinum thingy, and while it was drying, disconnected the battery for 10 minutes or so.

Hey presto, slipped it back in, battery on, no warning light, starts cleanly so took it for a little spin. Engine seems quieter, idle perfect, flat spots gone, and I think, though I'm not sure yet, it's a bit more economical.

Fantastic! Just got to wait for my OBD cable now to look at the error codes re: ESP light stuck on.

Wow! Where did you get the T20 driver from and how much has MPG improved?

Got a T20 security driver and some contact cleaner today, whipped it out

Are you sure? Having read that, I've just bought a set of security Torx sockets and myT20 is too small and the T27 is too big... :thumbdwn:

Are you sure? Having read that, I've just bought a set of security Torx sockets and myT20 is too small and the T27 is too big... :thumbdwn:

Just double checked, definately T20 security driver on my '51 plate 4x4. May be different on your MY or VRS generally? Anyway I bought a set from Halfords (3/8" drive).

Will report back on fuel economy after my commute to work in the morning.

Just double checked' date=' definately T20 security driver on my '51 plate 4x4. May be different on your MY or VRS generally? Anyway I bought a set from Halfords (3/8" drive).

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Cheers. That sounds like exactly the same set I bought!

They must have fitted some strangely sized ones to mine....

Seems a bit odd, but maybe the VRS has a different induction kit?

Cheers. That sounds like exactly the same set I bought!

They must have fitted some strangely sized ones to mine....

Are your Torx bits definitely security ones, ie with a hole in the middle? If not they won't fit.

Yes, I know the difference. I've had a set of the normal ones for years.

Doubting myself, I tried again earlier, but there's no way that the T20 will fit the MAF bolts.

Just had a look at a previous post of mine about the MAF. I used a T20-H star bit.

What is the difference between a T20 tamper-proof and a T20-H?

What is the difference between a T20 tamper-proof and a T20-H?

Pass. I have a tamperproof bit set and the latter is what is engraved on the bit I use. Have a read of this thread where one of our resident experts advises that the MAF screw is a Ribe screw.

I think that older MAFs had 6-star security torx and newer might have 5-star.

i just done mine.... made no diffrence to my problem... :(

Joel

Joel, take the car for a thrash, then when you return, leave the engine running, lift the bonnet and listen for any hissing noises - I had a split hose under the small front engine cover that I've replaced. I thought I had a failing MAF but in the end it was a £10 hose.