My MAF sensor won't unplug :(

[vonhughes]

Maggy hit 240,000 miles last month and am doing all the basic "Let's shoot for 300K!" maintenance items as time allows.

I am not wholly ignorant and mechanically incompetent, but for the life of me I can't unplug the dang MAF sensor to clean it up.

Note, I've tried to watch every YT video related to cleaning them, but everyone says "unclip from the harness..." and I can't see where they are applying pressure to the clip. Since I don't know how it is locking in, I'm not sure if I am not pressing hard enough or need to pry up from the bottom?

Very fearful of breaking it as I'm between employers at the moment and don't need to replace something that isn't broken.

Any input on the technique is much appreciated!

 

[bluelinepilot]

Push the top of that clip to make the bottom flare out and clear the retention clip. May need to push down on the connector while pressing that tab to get it to release. Here is the MAF after that clip is removed so you can see the retention clip I mean.

 

[bluelinepilot]

You could also use a small pic to pull the tab away I suppose. Either way it needs to be able to clear that clip.

 

[phattyduck]

Avoid using tools on electrical connectors unless necessary. Pushing down where you have it marked should pivot the latch up. When pulling on the connector, make sure you are wiggling it side to side - you may need to break loose a sticky gasket that seals the connector if it hasn't been disconnected in a while.

If you DO break the connector, you can get replacements for not too much $$$, but it is a hassle to re-pin the connector if you haven't done it before.

-Charlie

 

[bluelinepilot]

If you DO break the connector, you can get replacements for not too much $$$, but it is a hassle to re-pin the connector if you haven't done it before.

You can always zip tie it in place if it does break, but I feel you got this.

 

[vonhughes]

Thanks, all.

I will give this a shot in the morning when the Sun rises and let you know how it goes!