How to Install an MAF on a 1999 Ford Contour

In 1995, Ford eliminated the mid-sized Tempo and replaced it with the more modern Contour. In 1999, the Contour came standard with a 130-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The 1999 Contour SVT, however, came with a 200-horsepower, 2.5-liter V-6 engine. Both engines use a mass airflow sensor to monitor the density and temperature of the air coming into the intake and transferred this information to the vehicle's computer. Replacing the MAF sensor is basically the same on both engines, except in the way the MAF sensor attaches to the air-filter box.

Instructions

1

Disconnect the negative battery cable, using a combination wrench.

2

Loosen the hose clamp connecting the mass airflow sensor tube to the air intake tube with a Phillips screwdriver. Unlock the three clasps holding the top half of the air-filter box to the lower half of the air-filter box.

3

Unplug the wiring harness on the top of the MAF sensor, by pressing the locking button and pulling it away from the MAF sensor. Pull the top half of the air-filter box from the bottom half of the air-filter box. The MAF sensor tube will remain attached to the top half of the air-filter box.

4

Unfasten the clasps securing the MAF tube to the top half of air-filter box, on the 2.0-liter engine. On the 2.5-liter engine, remove the bolts securing the MAF tube to the top half of air-filter box, using a ratchet and socket. Pull the MAF tube from the top half of air-filter box. The MAF sensor is one piece with the tube.

5

Set the new MAF tube in the top half of the air-filter box and fasten the clasps to secure the tube to the air-box top, on the 2.0-liter engine. On the 2.5-liter engine, set the new MAF tube in the top half of air-filter box and tighten the bolts to 2 to 3 foot-pounds, using a torque wrench and socket.

6

Guide the free end of the MAF tube into the air intake tube and tighten the hose clamp with a Phillips screwdriver.

7

Set the top of the air-filter box onto the bottom of the air-filter box and fasten the clasps to secure it. Plug the wiring harness into the top of the new MAF sensor.

8

Reconnect the negative battery cable and tighten it with a combination wrench.