How to Clean the Mass Air Flow Sensor for a 1998 Oldsmobile Intrigue GL

Oldsmobile introduced the Intrigue GL for the 1998 model year as a replacement for the outgoing Cutlass Supreme. The 3.8-liter V-6 engine used a mass air flow sensor to accurately measure the incoming air for the purpose of determining the proper air-to-fuel ratios; once the electronic control module was informed of how much air was coming into the engine, it could adjust the fuel pressure and flow accordingly. The engine air filter protects the MAF sensor from contamination. If the air filter remains in service too long, fits poorly or incurs damage, the MAF will become contaminated and will have to be cleaned or replaced.

Instructions

1

Turn off the Intrigue's engine and open the hood. Loosen the clamp on the air duct leading from the back of the air cleaner housing to the MAF sensor, using a screwdriver. Loosen the clamp holding the MAF to the duct feeding into the engine, using a screwdriver.

2

Unplug the engine harness from the MAF sensor. Pull the ducts off the MAF sensor. Lift the MAF sensor out of the engine well.

3

Place the MAF sensor -- inlet opening facing down -- on a flat surface. Spray the interior screen and metering surfaces with electrical contact cleaner. Allow to dry.

4

Place the MAF sensor back into the engine duct, making sure the air-flow arrow points to the engine. Slide the inlet duct onto the inlet end of the MAF sensor. Tighten both clamps, using a screwdriver, after double checking the seal to ensure no unmetered air can enter the engine.

5

Plug the engine harness connector into the MAF sensor. Close the hood.