SES light after MAF install

[ddiamondd]

I just put in a new MAF after i completely messed up my other one. The SES light came before i swapped it, and is still on. Should i reset it manually, if so i need instructions, or should i drive it and wait to see if it goes away. Thanks in advance.

[MaximA32]

It may reset it self but if you want it gone now, just disconnect the positive battery terminal for about 20 mins and you should be squared away.

[Markc]

Does the engine run normally now? If so, maybe just drive it for a bit. You'll loose all of your presets if you disconnect battery, (no big deal). If you can beg, borrow or steal an OBD 2 reader with the capability, you can reset the ses that way as well. Bet you won't do that to the maf again!

[ddiamondd]

You got that right. I look at it as a bonding experience with the car. It does drive fine now. A little rough in the first 5 minutes though. But ill see if it goes off on its own. Thanks a bunch

[loystock]

As per OP, you can disconnect the battery or go to Autozone and have them reset the ECM for free.

Please take note that if your car is due for SMOG check, resetting the ECM will also reset the ECM''s OBD II non-continuous monitors to NOT READY state. It will take a mix of highway-city driving with several stop-and-go, 20 minutes minimum, to complete the System Readiness Test (SRT). The SRT is a bit complicated and may take several days to complete.

Also, a new MAF may require ECM re-programming which, unfortunately, can only be done at the dealership.

[ddiamondd]

How do I know if it needs to go to the dealership? Can I drive it without taking it there? And how much do they charge.....also does anybody know the legitimacy of a cheap obd 2 reader from ebay? I really appreciate the help

[loystock]

I bought a Cen-Tech OBD II scanner from Harbor Freight about 3 years ago. One of the best investment I've ever made. No need to go to Autozone nor get ripped at dealership/shops. I can get DTC codes, reset the ECU, get VIN code if available as well as the SRT (System Readiness Status). I got it for @ $60. Now they have new models for $99 and $139, the latter one can give Live PCM Datastream and even can print via a PC. If it works as advertised, then this is a great tool to have. But I don't know how good/reliable these new models are.

If after clearing the DTC you don't have any stumble nor SES, then you are good to go. Otherwise, have the ECM re-programmed. Here at Beshoff Infiniti-San Jose, ECM re-programming, including Throttle Valve Closed Learning and AVL (Idle Air Volume Learning) is $75. Other dealerships charge from $100 to $200. Beshoff Infiniti is the newest and best dealership in the SF Bay Area.

[ddiamondd]

This morning i started my car and the SES light was off! But it seems like it takes a second longer of turning the key to start it. Not sure if its still adjusting or if this is how its gonna be. But either way im glad to have my dashboard once again clear.

UPDATE: I went to luch and the car started sooner but would die if i didnt give it gas. It runs fine after a minute of driving, but im wondering if this issue will resolve itself or should i reset the ecu and do the re-learning procedures.
Modified by ddiamondd at 11:36 AM 8/12/2009

[loystock]

You may need a new fuel filter. It's located on the firewall, besides the brake booster. Before you pull it out, make sure that the fuel line is empty. To do this, with the engine runnning, pull out the Fuel Pump fuse from the dfuse box (below the dash board, to the left of the steering wheel) until the engine dies. Then crank the engine at least once to ensure line is empty. Once you have pulled it out, you can blow air into the filter. If air can go thru smoothly, then the filter is good. Otherwise, replace the filter.

Also, you may need to clean the engine ground leads. They are mounted on top of the engine, by the intake manifold close to Fuel Injector #2. If dirty, these ground leads can give you some starting problems and hesistation.

[ddiamondd]

Ill check it out. My only question is this wasnt happening before i replaced the MAF. I guess it could just be coincidental

[loystock]

The problem most probably lies with the fuel system and related controls. But there is no harm in checking the battery voltage: with engine off should be >12.5VDC and with the engine running (alternator charging) should be >13.8VDC.