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New MAF sensor question

  • Thread starter Thread starter aub02GTconv
  • Start date Start date Jun 25, 2011

aub02GTconv

New Member
May 30, 2003
26
0
1
South Jersey
Jun 25, 2011
#1
  • Jun 25, 2011
  • #1
I had check engine light, code came up the MAF sensor, I got one from ebay $40 bucks new oem part..got it today.... I disconnected the battery and installed the new MAF sensor.... check engine light is gone, car runs hell of alot better EXCEPT, still idling a little rough, rpm gauge bouncing between 0-1... but not to the point of stalling, like it was before the swap.....any clue what else I should do? I drove it around for a bit, will it correct itself? Or do i have to adjust the idle?

Thanks....aubrey
 

trombonedemon

Well-Known Member
Jun 25, 2009
1,962
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U.S.A, U.S.A., U.S.A.!
Jun 25, 2011
#2
  • Jun 25, 2011
  • #2
The idle is computer controlled. IAC valve might on its last leg and or you might have a vacuum leak.
 

aub02GTconv

New Member
May 30, 2003
26
0
1
South Jersey
Jun 25, 2011
#3
  • Jun 25, 2011
  • #3
Thanks for the info..... Do you think it would be worth trying to clean it first with some throttle body cleaner? Or replacing it... I found a link to clean it, and it looks pretty easy to do.....My hubby is out golfing, and I am trying to get my car inspection ready since I have 5 days left till my sticker expires....
I am pretty mechanically capable.. at least I think so.


http://www.moddedmustangs.com/cleaning-your-iac.html
 

aub02GTconv

New Member
May 30, 2003
26
0
1
South Jersey
Jun 25, 2011
#4
  • Jun 25, 2011
  • #4
oh and if I should try cleaning it first... should I get a new gasket, or can i reuse the original?..
 

wmburns

SN Certified Technician
Aug 14, 2009
5,892
514
204
Houston Texas
Jun 25, 2011
#5
  • Jun 25, 2011
  • #5
troubleshoot IAC idle problems 1996-2004

After a battery disconnect, it's is normal for the idle to be rough. It does take time for the PCM to re-learn new idle trim values.

Is the AC on? Does it run better with the AC off?

Try letting the car idle at full opperational temperature for several minutes.

Review the following for more information on how to trouble shoot IAC issues for the 96+ MY.
Is your mustang stumbling, dieing at idle or idling rough? - Page 14 - Ford Mustang Forums
 

aub02GTconv

New Member
May 30, 2003
26
0
1
South Jersey
Jun 25, 2011
#6
  • Jun 25, 2011
  • #6
help...

the A/C was off, i don't use it hardly.....took the car out again and after about 1/2 of driving my damn CEL came back on! WTF and now the car is doing the same ****...idle is bucking when i am at a light...if I put it in neutral the idling calms down, and it stops bucking...

Took it back to Advance auto to have code read again, and now reading
PO171 and PO174... running lean..... what are my options now... I have
5 days to get my damn car inspected .... do I go after the IAC,PCV, or 02 sensors? all three.......this sucks since I am practically broke this week...


I take it, it won't pass inspection with a CEL, ahhh
 

wmburns

SN Certified Technician
Aug 14, 2009
5,892
514
204
Houston Texas
Jun 25, 2011
#7
  • Jun 25, 2011
  • #7
P0171 - System to Lean (Bank 1)

What is the model year of your car? I'm assuming 2002.

For lean DTC, start first by looking for vacuum leaks. Even a tiny vacuum leak can cause issues.

Next exhaust leaks.

Clean the MAF. Use only a product designed for the job. It's cheap insurance. Not likely to solve your problem as the MAF is new.

Of course, the MAF could be bad. However, since you reported it ran better with the new MAF, somehow that seems like a long shot to me. IMO, seem more likely there is an additional issue.

A new PCV valve is also cheap and easy to replace. Remember that the PCV system is basically a controlled vacuum leak.

Research, inspect, and test. Throw parts at it only as a last resort.

A bad IAC is NOT going to cause a lean DTC.

The number one cause of bucking is an ignition issue. Followed by a air metering issue (vacuum leak or bad MAF).

Regarding the poor idle. Best to wait until the DTC's are gone. Quite possible that the issues causing the DTC is also causing the poor idle.

Have you done the tests called for in the other post?

Inspect the throttle body for worn parts, weak return spring, or general slop in the linkage.

>>
P0171

Air Measurement System
MAF sensor (contaminated, damaged, malfunctioning, etc.)
Fuel System
Fuel pressure regulator (leaking, malfunctioning, etc.).
Fuel filter plugged, dirty.
Fuel pump (weak, check valve leaking, etc.).
Leaking/contaminated fuel injectors.
Low fuel pressure or running out of fuel.
EVAP canister purge valve leaking (when canister is "clean").
Fuel supply line restricted.
Fuel rail pressure sensor (incorrect reading).
Air Induction System
Air leaks after the MAF.
Vacuum Leaks.
PCV system (leak, valve stuck open, etc.)
Improperly seated engine oil dipstick.
Exhaust System Exhaust leaks before or near the HO2Ss (exhaust manifold gasket, mating gaskets, etc.).
EGR System
EGR valve tube/gasket leak
EVR solenoid vacuum leak
Secondary Air Injection
Damaged/malfunctioning secondary air injection system (mechanically stuck valve).
 
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