2009 (2nd gen) MAF cleaning

I'm new, and not sure if where this goes, but I wanted to add it for some DIY guys that are just getting started. I couldn't find anything about the MAF on second gens and wanted to clean mine. It's super easy and I noticed a smoother idle immediately! Here's the pics for removal: -first remove the engine cover

-undo the negative terminal on the battery, and unclog the MAF sensor. It's just behind the left engine cover retainer stud. Then remove the two Phillips head screws that retain the MAF sensor.


-gently pull the sensor from its place and pug the hole with a rag to prevent debris from entering. Spray the sensor plate, and the wire harness connections on both ends with MAF cleaner.

The plate may require multiple applications to fully clean buildup. After satisfactory cleaning, allow to dry and replace in inverse order of removal. Don't forget to hook the battery back up or it won't start lol. Good luck!

 

you dont have to unhook the battery

 

True, you don't, but it doesn't hurt to reset the fuel adaptations so the computer can relearn with the clean MAF sensor.
Takes longer if you don't disconnect the battery.

 

That was my thinking. Plus with any electrical part, I generally use disconnecting the battery as a safety precaution.

 

What did you use to clean it?

 

I cleaned it with the generic MAF Sensor Cleaner from autozone.

 

Not trying to hate on your write up, just wanted to add, there's also elements inside the housing that can be cleaned also. DO NOT STICK ANYTHING SOLID IN THERE. The wires are very delicate and can be damaged easily if not careful and you will need a to purchase a new one if you damage them. I used the sensor safe cleaner as you mentioned and a q-tip in a gentle twisting motion. Clean until you're q-tip doesn't discolor. You will probably need to use more than one q-tip.

 

Thank you basictaco. I threw a P0171 code the other day and could not find my MAF sensor. I thought it would’ve been near the air filter like most vehicles.

 

Cleaning the MAF sensor is an annual springtime event for me...its good to clean the throttle body at the same time.

 

Thanks I’ll look into doing that as well. I’m no mechanic obviously but I try to take care of as much as I can.

 

See also:

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/how-to-throttle-body-cleaning-2005-v6.94203/

 

I’ll have to buy a torque wrench. Any recommendations on one that won’t break the bank?

 

You dont need a torque wrench for those little throttle body bolts, just dont murder em when you put it back on. Picture the rubber gasket getting squeezed, a little further past that and youre good

 

So do you just spray the cleaner into the TB while it’s bolted on or do you remove it?

 

Al

Well alright I’ll give it a try. Something just bugged me about spraying that into the engine but I guess it’s not that big of a deal. I tell you what joining this website was a great idea. I actually need to change my U joints but decided against doing it myself since I don’t want to worry about losing any tranny fluid so I dropped it off.

 

Don't disconnect the battery unless you intend to clean the throttle. It will idle low until it relearns.

 

Just to add make sure you use a TB cleaner and MAF cleaner don’t use brake cleaner. CRC makes a great product for both applications

 

My MAF sensor is now clean, but needs a new gasket/O-ring. Anyone know the part number? I'd hate to have to buy a whole new sensor when only the gasket is bad.

 

If 4wd you won’t lose any fluid. Not sure what you’re working on.

 

got my taco about 3 yrs ago with 33k miles
It some times had a little hesitation

Has been getting more consistent. 75k
Just did this took about 10 min, cleared it right up