Poqman

I need help from the experts. I have a 2002 SC430 with 91k miles that is starting to run a little rough at idle. I read the threads that say cleaning the MAF sensor and throttle body helps smooth out the idle so I went to the auto store and bought CRC MAF Sensor cleaner and CRC throttle body cleaner. When I got home and read the can, the MAF cleaner says "DO NOT use on vehicles with a Karman-Vortex air flow sensor, e.g. Toyota Supra Turbos, Mitsubishi's and most Lexus vehicles." Can anyone tell me if the SC430 uses a Karman-Vortex air flow sensor? The sensor on the car has a Toyota Denso part number. If it is a Karman-Vortex, what brand of MAF cleaner is okay to use with our cars? Thanks!

Poqman

Okay, looks like folks aren't sure if SC uses a Karman-Vortex MAF, so let me ask if anyone has used the CRC brand MAF sensor cleaner and did it seem to do any damage?

JerryB

Hi Poqman,

Sometimes when you buy a can of that type, there is a 800 number to call.

If there is, you might give them a call and see if they can answer your question.

Just a thought . . .

Jerry Baumchen

talwang

iTrader: (4)

probably the hot wire type ( I could be wrong)
I have used that product on my sc430's MAF several times before, but I now prefer using a q-tip with rubbing alcohol.

Poqman

thanks for feedback!

JerryB - you're right. Just found an 800 number for tech support at CRC on the can. I'll call Monday and see what they say.

talwang - Your having used this product gives me some confidence that it won't ruin your MAF. I've read in the threads that these things are extremely fragile. I'm guessing the Q-tip is the safest route with a very light hand.

Poqman

I took the plunge today and cleaned the MAF sensor and the throttle body using the CRC brand cleaners. After cleaning, the idle speed changed from 800 rpm at idle to 1200 rpm. Drove around and it didn't go back to 800, so I took the battery cable off for an hour to reset the ECU and then all returned to normal. Engine is definitely running smoother. I would have never done this myself without the information in these threads. Love learning from CL members. Thanks.

VVTiBob

For informational purposes only....

The MAF or Mass Air Flow meter circuit is a little more complicated than a simple cleaning may suggest, but this is a good diagnostic step.

The circuit consists of a thermistor and control circuit electronics measuring changes in air temperature against a set temperature, regulating the flow of air accordingly.

If there is a malfunction, you should get a P0100/31 error code. Errors can exist in places, either end of the wiring harness, the ECM itself or the actual assembly.