MAF Sensor

Ok, this could be a dumb question. I've noticed that a way to check your MAF is to unplug it with the engine running. Then the engine shouldn't run smoothly, correct? That is how it worked on several other vehicles I've tried it on. When I unplug it on my 96 Tacoma, the engine dies. Is that normal?

 

I once tried to have my kid press on the throttle pedal whiile inspecting the throttle body opening. But, even though the MAF was pluged in, the Intake was not connected to the TB, so my truck would not start up.

So my guess would be that the MAF must be connected for you truck to run.

 

Why not just get a volt meter and check the readings?

 

On my moms 03 Toyota van when I unplugged the MAF it shut off the van.