Do-it-yourself cleaning of the air flow sensor on a VAZ 2114: how and with what liquid to rinse the sensor

What kind of device is this?

Such an element is present in any modern car, since the era of carburetor engines has passed and an electronic control unit (ECU), or controller in other words, is responsible for many operations. Many drivers even call him “the brain.”

The mass air flow sensor is used to measure the amount of air supplied to the engine. However, this device does not measure its volume, but only determines how much mass passes per unit of time, sending data to the ECU. In turn, the controller “understands” how much air has entered the cylinders at each moment of time, and depending on this, adjusts the fuel supply. As a result, the engine runs smoothly and without interruption.

Beginners may be interested not only in whether the mass air flow sensor can be cleaned, but, in fact, where it is located. Typically, this device is located in the area between the air filter housing and the pipe that goes to the throttle valve. It is equipped not only with gasoline, but also with diesel power units.

Diagnosis of failure

If the air flow sensor breaks down, the symptoms of the malfunction can be very different. First of all, fuel consumption will increase; another symptom may be floating engine speed.

In addition to these signs of failure, the following can be identified:

failures in the operation of the power unit;
slower car acceleration, poor dynamics;
the power unit can turn off when changing gears;
decrease in power and increase in gasoline consumption;
a heated internal combustion engine is more difficult to start;
the Check light appears on the control panel.

The last symptom may not appear if the controller fails completely. How to check the MAF on your own? Diagnostics consists of identifying the impulse.

If the impulse is low, this indicates:

possible short circuit or broken wiring;
regulator failure;
incorrect operation of the ECU;
oxidation of contacts;
that the controller is not connected.

Clogged air flow regulator

Check Features

To understand how the mass air flow sensor is checked, first find the device located in the engine compartment. On VAZ 2114 cars the regulator is located on the air filter line. How to check the sensor yourself?

First, the controller must be disconnected from the network; to do this, press on the wire fastening. Start the engine and let it run for a while. You need to drive the car a little - if it accelerates faster than usual, then this indicates a failure of the controller.

The diagnostic procedure can be carried out by replacing the firmware of the control unit. There is a small stop on the throttle; you need to place a plate under it, its thickness should be about 1 mm, thanks to this it will be possible to increase the speed. Then the power supply to the regulator is also turned off; when the device is operational, the motor should stall (video author - Vanechek 01rus).

When is it time to clean?

But regardless of the type of sensor, over time it begins to function incorrectly due to contamination - the platinum measuring elements become covered with dust. Therefore, the question of how to clean the mass air flow sensor will always be relevant.

Why does this happen? The main reason for sensor contamination lies on the surface - the unsatisfactory condition of the air filter. If the filter element is of poor build quality, then it is not able to trap microscopic particles of dirt and dust that settle on the sensing element of the mass flow sensor.

As a result, the device is not able to accurately measure the amount of air and sends incorrect data to the ECU. It's not hard to imagine what this might lead to. Here we gradually approach some characteristic signs that may indicate that the sensor is clogged and needs to be cleaned:

The need to clean the mass air flow sensor on a VAZ or other cars arises when the engine idles intermittently, in some cases they are too high - up to 1500.
The car may jerk and have difficulty accelerating.
Sometimes the engine does not start at all.
Increased fuel consumption - sometimes up to 15 liters per 10 km.
Check Engine light on the dashboard.

However, the above signs do not always accurately indicate contamination of the air flow sensor. A variety of situations can arise, and among them is one when the sensor itself is fine, but the fault lies in the hose that connects the device to the module.

In other words, although there are many obvious signs that a particular part of the car is faulty, they can indicate any other problem.

Reasons for failure of the mass flow sensor

Cleaning the mass air flow sensor is a responsible task, and once completed, the car may even start to drive better. But you need to understand what causes it to malfunction. A flow meter, which transmits important parameters, is important in order to use the amount of fuel that is needed for the normal functioning of the engine. If the element fails, the engine may not even start.

Symptoms of blockage:

the “Check Engine” indicator lights up on the control panel;
the car began to consume more fuel;
There is a noticeable decrease in transport power. Acceleration takes longer than before;
the dynamics have decreased, which is especially noticeable when accelerating;
the engine does not start or does so only with difficulty;
the crankshaft operates at “floating” speed.

Causes of malfunction:

the sensor is clogged with dirt. The solution is to clean the air flow sensor;
the device is broken. In this case, only replacement will help;
the sensor began to have poor contact with the on-board network. The wiring may be damaged.

Of course, the reasons may be related to other components, which is why it is so important that the vehicle owner knows how to carry out diagnostics.

Sensor check

To accurately verify that the sensor is faulty and understand whether the mass air flow sensor on the VAZ-2114 needs to be cleaned or not, whether it needs cleaning or whether you will have to go to the store for a new mass air flow sensor, you will need a multimeter known to all radio amateurs:

The device is switched to voltage measurement mode (voltmeter).
Set the limit to 2 V.
There are two wires in the sensor connector - yellow (it goes to the ECU) and green (connects to ground).
The voltage is measured between these wires, and only the ignition should be turned on.
Now all that remains is to look at the instrument readings.

If the measurement result is 0.99-0.02, the sensor is working. If the upper threshold is exceeded to 0.03, the mass air flow sensor needs cleaning and the sooner the better. In the case when the measurements are less than the lower limit (0.95) or the upper limit is very high (0.05), then the chances of a successful outcome are 50/50. That is, either cleaning will help and the sensor will function properly again, or you need to buy a new device.

In addition to this, you can understand whether to clean the mass air flow sensor on a VAZ-2110 or not by using one more method when you don’t have a multimeter at hand. Disconnect the sensor, then start the engine, raise the speed to 2000 and drive for a while. If at this moment there are obvious changes, the car has become more dynamic, then the sensor is definitely dirty.

Sensing element of the air flow sensor

The most common cause of sensor failure is a dirty element. To resolve the problem, it is recommended to check it. To do this, you need to disconnect the mass air flow sensor from the air filter assembly and visually inspect it. If the sensing element is dirty, it may be serviceable, but contamination introduces errors into the measurement mode. Sensor check:

Identify the terminals on the MAF sensor itself that correspond to the signal wire and ground.
Set the meter to the continuity or low setting on the ohm scale.
Connect one measuring probe to the signal and the other to ground on the MAF electrical connector. Polarity doesn't matter.
The indicator should be 0 Ohm or close to this value. If the device displays infinite resistance, most likely the mass air flow sensor element is faulty.
Visually inspect the sensor.

Hot-wire sensors have a self-cleaning electrical circuit that heats the sensing element to 1,000 degrees when the engine is turned off. This part of the circuit often fails; the mass air flow sensor becomes covered with dirt and does not read the incoming air. In this case, you can try to clean the sensitive element using a special spray. In this case, safety precautions must be observed. Do not touch the sensitive element or clean it with a cloth or special means not intended for mass air flow sensors or electrical contacts.

Cleaning products

Since the sensing element of the air flow sensor is made of platinum, therefore, it is necessary to choose the right means to clean it. And first of all, it’s worth understanding what you absolutely cannot use:

Any liquid that contains acetone, ketone, ether.
Products used to clean carburetors.
Cotton wool wound around a match, toothpick, etc.
Compressed air.

What then remains to be used? Well, there are plenty of options here too.

What is the best way to flush the air flow sensor?

In fact, there are not many cleaning compounds that can be used to clean the air sensor - all the others will simply ruin it (see section above).

Therefore, the question: what is the best way to flush the air flow sensor can be answered quite specifically:

pure medical ethyl alcohol that does not contain any impurities;
carburetor cleaner (does not contain acetone);
spray WD-40.

WD-40

At the same time, medical alcohol can be used either 96 degrees or diluted with distilled water in a ratio of 1 to 5.

Liqui Moly

How to clean the MAF sensor? One option is cleaning fluid from Liqui Moly. The company is known to many car enthusiasts as a manufacturer that makes only high-quality products for cars. In addition, the ratio between reliability and price is at an optimal level. As for the use of liquid for cleaning the mass air flow sensor, most vehicle owners have already become convinced of its effectiveness. This has not been proven by a single procedure. And if the sensor is in working condition, then even after cleaning it will last no less.

The liquid can be used for both diesel and gasoline engines.

Routine cleaning work

The air flow sensor is cleaned every six months or when changing the oil. Experts also recommend cleaning the device when the air filters are changed. Replacing the sensor at service centers costs $300, but if you clean it regularly, you can avoid car repairs. For this purpose it is recommended to use special means. The MAF cleaner costs about $7. The cheapest option is to take the air flow sensor and place it in a plastic bag filled with alcohol or a special cleaning fluid. Necessary tools for the process:

4-in-1 screwdriver;
digital camera;
Torx tool;
MAF cleaner.

After cleaning with cleaning agent or alcohol, allow the device to dry for 20 minutes. Only a completely dry air flow sensor can be installed in a vehicle. Algorithm for cleaning the device:

Before you go to the store for materials and parts, you need to remove the air duct to see how the sensor is attached. If it is held on by Torx screws, then you will need to purchase a Torx tool and a can of cleaner. It is not recommended to use other cleaning agents; they may damage the air flow sensor. Do not use the cleaner with the engine running and the key in the working position. This will cause serious damage to the sensor. With the engine turned off and cooling, disconnect the mass air flow sensor.

Locate the sensor between the air filter box and the throttle body

Before removing the sensor, you should use a digital camera to record settings and connections. Carefully remove the sensor from the air duct and disconnect the electrical connector. Then remove the air intake pipe and mass air flow sensor. Most sensors are connected to hose clamps, so you need to loosen the clamp and remove the device box. Place the air flow sensor on a dry towel. Spray the cleaner onto the inside of the body and the working element 10-15 times. When doing this, you need to be careful not to touch the wires, as they are quite thin. Spray the product onto the entire surface of the air flow sensor, including connectors and terminals. Install the sensor in the car and wait a few minutes before starting the engine until the chemicals evaporate.

Liqui Moly Cleanser

Liqui Moly is a special active solvent for cleaning the air flow sensor for all brands of engines. The cleaner removes contaminants on the hot wire or air flow sensor plate. Suitable for use in gasoline and diesel engines. The cleaning procedure is simple: you need to disconnect the electrical connection of the air flow sensor and remove it by spraying the solution on all dirty areas.

Multi-functional product WD-40

WD-40 is used to wash the sensor and metal surfaces of the car from rust and dirt. The cleaner penetrates boiling deposits, displaces moisture and lubricates almost everything. WD-40 is also great for removing grease, dirt, and other marks from most surfaces. It is an iconic multi-purpose product for general or spot applications.

WD-40 cleans and protects auto tools and mechanical equipment from rust and corrosion, removes grease, dirt, tar, rubber, scratches, water deposits, etc. It is able to penetrate deep into deposits, loosen rusty parts such as nuts, bolts , valves, locks, etc. WD-40 binds and displaces moisture from engines, spark plugs, power tools and vehicle fuel systems.

GDI fuel injector cleaner

Get Clean is a comprehensive cleaning fluid for engine and air sensors. The product is ideally formulated to restore performance, increase horsepower and torque, improve idling and reduce emissions for improved engine performance. Using this product helps to quickly and easily remove even the hardest deposits on the sensor.

If cleaning the air flow sensor with a cleaning solution does not solve the problem, then:

The self-cleaning circuit may fail.
Air leakage around the cleaning assembly bypasses the air filter.
A low quality filter allows material to pass through and stick to the sensing element.
An air leak around the air filter housing, caused by a crack, an improperly installed cap, or loose clamps, introduces unfiltered air and contaminates the sensing element.

The efficiency of the equipment after washing is guaranteed for 10 thousand km. Free sensor deposits mean optimal fuel system performance, which equates to improved engine performance, quick throttle response, smooth starting and fuel economy.

Alcohol

We can say that this is an old-fashioned method, which at the same time will never lose its relevance. Alcohol can effectively break down dirt and blockages. About 20 years ago, the question of how to clean the mass air flow sensor was mainly solved with the help of alcohol, and this method was held in high esteem by many drivers, but now they are trying to resort to it less and less.

Nevertheless, it is relevant in cases where the car owner needs to invoice for washing with special means. Unfortunately, such disappointing practice is not uncommon at many service stations.

WD-40

Absolutely every car enthusiast is familiar with this product, regardless of experience. In addition, all other people who are not directly related to cars know about it. Over the course of its existence, WD-40 has proven itself to be excellent, and there is no doubt about its effectiveness.

For this reason, it is used not only to remove “deposits” from bolts, but also to clean the mass air flow sensor.

Purifier selection options

How to clean the flow meter? The modern market offers many products for cleaning regulators; let’s look at the most effective options:

Alternatively, you can use alcohol to clean the device. This method is considered one of the oldest, but nevertheless the most effective. Due to its chemical properties, alcohol is good at removing clogs that accumulate on the sensitive component of the air flow sensor. Despite its effectiveness, today this method is not used so often and is usually used by unscrupulous technicians at service stations. The client pays for a special substance, for example, Liqui Moly, and in fact the cleaning is carried out using alcohol.
The next option is fluid for carburetor engines. This option is considered one of the most effective and frequently used. Using carburetor fluid, you can effectively clean it, and as practice shows, such a product allows you to remove all contaminants.
Another product sold in spray form is Liquid Key. This cleaner is used to remove all kinds of contaminants, not only from the flow meter, but also from other mechanisms and components.
A universal tool for performing many tasks is WD-40. This liquid is used by our compatriots to clean all kinds of components, remove rust, get rid of squeaks, etc. Not so long ago, our car enthusiasts began to use it to clean flow meters (the author of the video is the Gen channel MB W140 Germany).

How to properly clean the air flow sensor

Let's consider the procedure for cleaning the mass air flow sensor using the example of a car of the 10th family - VAZ-2110:

Turn off the ignition.
Disconnect the connector from the mass air flow sensor.
Remove the sensor itself by unscrewing the bolts that secure it to the air filter housing. Depending on the car model, disabling the mass air flow sensor may vary.
The sensor is removed from its place, otherwise its cleaning will not be effective.
On the device itself there is an area with two bolts - these should also be unscrewed.
The selected cleaning agent is drawn into a syringe and then sprayed onto the sensitive element. At the same time, if necessary, you can wash the block with contacts.
Give time for everything to dry.
Assemble the sensor and install it in place.

To make drying faster, you can use a compressor only at minimum pressure. If the sensitive element is heavily soiled, the procedure should be repeated several times.

But even in this case, washing does not always give the desired result, and you just have to go to the nearest store for a new mass air flow sensor.

How to clean the mass air flow sensor

Before you begin, here are a few notes to be aware of:

Some manufacturers recommend replacing the MAF rather than cleaning it if the hot wire or sensing elements are dirty because cleaning the wires will not restore the sensor to its original performance. However, cleaning a dirty MAF sensor may work fine in most cases.
If your sensor is around 100,000 miles or more, you may want to consider a new replacement, especially if engine performance seems a little sluggish after cleaning.

Unlock the tab to disconnect the MAF electrical connector.

Now, if you are ready to start, make sure the ignition switch is in the "Off" position. Then set the parking brakes and open the hood.

Disconnect the MAF electrical connector. Be careful. You may have to press down on a plastic tab or latch to release the connector.
Remove the bolts, usually two, that hold the sensor in place. On some models it is located inside the air filter box. If necessary, consult your vehicle's repair manual.
Remove the sensor from the air intake trunk lid or air filter box.
Check the rubber gasket that seals the MAF to its housing. If damaged, replace it.
Do a visual inspection. Check the sensor for overheating and, if installed, cold wires for traces of dust, dirt, debris or insects.
Place the MAF on a workbench or similar surface and leave it on the rag. The rag will help you catch the cleaning solution runoff as you spray the sensor.
Wear safety glasses and latex gloves.
Clean the sensor by spraying it with cleaning solution. Follow the instructions included with your product. Whatever you do, avoid touching sensitive wires. They are fragile and can break easily.
If the hot and cold wires are covered in dirt or debris, you can use a brush to wipe them off.
Soak a small brush in the cleaning solution.
Use a brush to remove dirt and debris from the wire(s).
After cleaning the MAF, allow it to dry completely for a few minutes.
Meanwhile, remove dust and debris from the air filter housing and air ducts. If there is dirt or debris in the ducts, the unit forces air through the air filter.
Install the air filter correctly and close the air filter box and air duct.
Install the MAF, make sure the rubber seal is installed correctly, and secure the sensor with the mounting bolts.
Connect the MAF electrical connector. Make sure the tab is locked.
If necessary, clear fault codes using a scan tool.
Start the engine and listen to it at idle speed.

Depending on your specific model and the trouble codes set in your computer's diagnostic memory, you may need to drive several miles to improve engine performance. For example, you may still notice a rough idle. The ECM (Engine Control Module) may take some time to adjust to the new input parameters.

If cleaning does not solve your engine's performance problems and you suspect a problem with the sensor, you may want to check the MAF sensor or replace it.

A couple of recommendations:

If you find dirt or debris attached to the wires or sensing elements, this may indicate a faulty self-cleaning circuit. You can test the "off" relay and, if necessary, the circuit. Refer to your vehicle's repair manual.
Some manufacturers recommend replacing the air filter after cleaning the MAF.

Securely secure the clamps of the air filter assembly to prevent air leakage.

Additional manipulations

It is now clear how to clean the mass air flow sensor, but this procedure alone does not end everything; it is necessary to perform a number of additional and necessary manipulations. And you need to do this before installing a clean device. And while the cleaning agent is drying, it’s time to work on the air pipe. It is worth carefully inspecting it for integrity. And if the condition is unsatisfactory - there are cracks and other damage, then it should be replaced.

As experts note, before installing the mass air flow sensor, it is advisable to replace the filter element. You should also check the condition of the rubber seal. Here it is important to pay attention to how tightly it fits, otherwise it will not be possible to avoid the suction of outside air, which is flooded with various contaminants. As a result, cleaning will be required again, and in a fairly short time. Or it will lead to its failure altogether.

Malfunction of the VAZ 2114 mass air flow sensor: causes and symptoms

A malfunction of the sensor leads to a violation of the proportions of preparation of the working fuel mixture. This will primarily affect the operation of the car’s internal combustion engine: increased fuel consumption, floating speed, etc. If the breakdown is not repaired, it will lead to more serious problems in the operation of the internal combustion engine.

The reasons for the malfunction of the VAZ 2114 mass air flow sensor can be caused by:

clogging - the ingress of crankcase gases from the throttle valve along with air, as a result, the formation of a layer of deposits on the threads that “read” the amount of air;
breakdown of threads - wear after the expiration of the operating life (about 100-150 thousand mileage), failure due to improper operation or due to detonation in the throttle assembly.

If we look at the VAZ 2114 air sensor, the signs of a malfunction are as follows:

the operation of the internal combustion engine at idle is unstable (when starting before warming up, strong fluctuations in speed are observed, when adding speed with the accelerator pedal, the internal combustion engine stalls);
When the gas is completely released, the revolutions freeze and remain for several seconds at around 2-3 thousand;
traction disappears (power decreases, the car pulls poorly downhill and does not accelerate); Fuel consumption increases significantly due to the low level of the mass air flow sensor signal; accordingly, we are talking about a fuel mixture that is more enriched with air;
The “Check Engine” light on the instrument panel lights up.