Another MAF Cleaning Question

[pirenuri]

After reading dozens of postings regarding hesitation issues I have a feeling my problem is also related to dirty MAF sensor.

The article posted on the website is very helpful but unfortunately it is not for 1998 Q45. I would really appreciate If someone describes how to remove the sensor for 98 model or better yet post a picture.

Also what is the best way to clean the connectors? Can I use the MAf cleaner spray or should I be using anything special?

[maxnix]

MAF cleaning highly overrated. Usually not necessary unless intake air filter change interval is abused or employs 3rd party like K&N.

[pirenuri]

In my case previous owner didn't pay attenntionto changing the air filter. My mecanic said it was very dirty. He guessed the filter was it 3-4 years old.

[maxnix]

OUCH!

Then look at Q45.org and be very careful.

Change OEM filter annually.

Have you looked at your cabin filter?

Hope you have changed all fluids and filters for a baseline as evidently you did not obtain the Infiniti dealer performed service history nor have an Infiniti Senior technician perform the pre purchase inspection.

[slybydesignq45t]

MAF cleaning highly overrated. Usually not necessary unless intake air filter change interval is abused or employs 3rd party like K&N.

WOW, I am super surprised you would say this Max. Cleaning the MAF has been a main staple in several forums I am on, when it comes to a smoother idle. So much so that when my Q45 stalled on me I cleaned it and it never stalled after that. Following the direct instructions of also cleaning the connectors and making sure the wires where clean. You are a master at mechanics knowledge thats why I am surprised you would say cleaning the MAF is over rated. I would say having quick access to another one if you happen to clean it wrong is a good idea but if one reads the instructions on cleaning the MAF its easier then making a bowl of cereal.

[Q45tech]

Luckily at cruise the MAF equation and TPS equation are backed up by O2 equation and RPM to arrive at a close A/F ratio.

Sudden Acceleration depends on the rate of change of TPS added by fuel pressure regulator [34>44 psi add 14% more fuel for the same opening time for injectors] BEFORE ecu notices a MAF [air flow increase].

Each of 8 possible accelerations plus WOT has a known rpm increase per second.

Things only get out of whack when the EXPECTED MAF VOLTAGE RANGE get radically different from expected vs +-20%.

[qship96]

I cleaned factory original MAF on m 96Q for the FIRST time in its life at about 210,000 miles, it made ZERO difference, and the liquid cleaner apperaed clear as it drained on a white paper towel. Total waste of time if factory air filters are used.

[maxnix]

I cleaned factory original MAF on m 96Q for the FIRST time in its life at about 210,000 miles, it made ZERO difference, and the liquid cleaner apperaed clear as it drained on a white paper towel. Total waste of time if factory air filters are used.

That's the point. Unless the intake filtration is seriously abused, MAF cleaning is seldom indicated nor required.

[slybydesignq45t]

I cleaned factory original MAF on m 96Q for the FIRST time in its life at about 210,000 miles, it made ZERO difference, and the liquid cleaner apperaed clear as it drained on a white paper towel. Total waste of time if factory air filters are used.

Qship96, I guess that would depend on why you chose to clean it. On my Mercedes I also had a bit of ruff idle, but chose not to clean the MAF because it didn't stall out on my. If you witnessed no symptoms of issues with the MAF then cleaning it would not have done anything. I guess I have found it handy to clean it. I also read it should be cleaned every 15,000 miles, but I think that is a bit excessive. I wouldn't try to fix something that not broken.

[qship96]

I was not experiencing any problems when I cleaned the MAF, just thought I would clean it to see if was dirty after being used for all those miles....it wasnt, which leads me to believe MAF never requires cleaning if air filteration is operating up to spec.

[Q45tech]

GM MAF had a special burn off current whenever engine was turned off to self clean their unit, obviously the Hitachi unit has a slightly different design but never say never on cleaning but with oem filter every 60k may be enough.

Personally I clean mine every year in late Spring.

Rub a clean paper towel on the front MAF air straightener screen, any dirt is an obvious sign.

[maxnix]

I'll try that next time, but so far at over 100K, they are pristine with no film and little dust. Just not enough detectable degradation to risk wear or damage.

[Kiven422]

A very dirty MAF can cause hesitation issues. Personally my experience of cleaning the MAF for the first time was not really a big deal. The vehicle drove smoother but it really didn't make a difference.

I still think people should do it all the time. At least once a year.