Codes p0171 and p0174

[Triathlete]

Cleaning the MAF seems to have fixed it. Day 2 and still no light! Pased emissions test with flying colors!
I will put the O2 sensors on my list of things to do though since they are probably about due.
I crawled under the VX last night and they look pretty easy to get to.

[Y33TREKker]

Nice. I only all VX problems were that easy to fix.

[Diogenes]

Hey folks!! Just failed emissions.. "sigh" because there's apparently no input from the O2 sensors.

My rig is a 1999 with only 60K miles on it (yes.. that's correct.. , so I'm thinking it might be a MAF related issue and I'd like to explore this before paying the $$$ to take it to a mechanic..

So what kind of MAF related cleaner should I be looking for and how do I use it? Do I just remove the air filter and spray it into the air intake tunnel? I take it I should not do this with the motor running.. ;0)

Btw, haven't had the codes read yet, so this is just a first step.. trying to avoid a major (costly) repair bill if I can.

Thanks for any input you can provide!!

[Diogenes]

Just had my vehicle down at the shop to have the codes read and they informed me that to replace my 02 sensors (all 4 rather than just 1), they'd like to charge me $850..

I declined, but asked for a written estimate since in our state, if the cost of repairs is over $750 to bring the vehicle into emissions compliance, you apparently can get a waiver.

I'll try and deal with the 02 sensors on my own time and see if I can fix/replace them myself.

Diogenes

[johnnyapollo]

They sell for about $50 each on eBay (and sometimes you can get them a lot cheaper - think I paid $14 for the last one I found on there). I'm not sure why they're charging you so much in labor - I think the sensors retail for something like $79 each. It could be an exhaust/emissions issue that is unrelated to the sensors.

-- John

[Triathlete]

To clean the MAF you just loosen the two clamps (one on each side of the MAF) and remove it. You then spray the inner parts of the MAF, according to the dirrections on the can, with MAF cleaner (any auto parts store should carry it...it is a cleaner made specifically for MAFs). I used "CSC Mass Air Flow Sensor Cleaner" that I bought from Checker Auto. It is fairly inexspensive.
As far as the o2 sensors...they are pretty easy to access. They are on the exhaust pipe. If you crawl under the VX you will see them pretty easily. Just pre-soak them with a penitrating oil 3-4 times prior to help loosen then up. Just need the right size wrench and a little elbow grease and you'll be good. Probably less than a 2 hour job if you take your time. As stated already, the sensors are under $80 each. I know checkers has the Bosch sensors for about $75 regular price.
If your state is like Az then you can only get 1 waiver so this is not a long term solution.

[volume311]

I got a pair of new Bosch O2 Sensors for about $55 down here with the harness.

You will need either an O2 sensor wrench or a open ended 22mm wrench. Spray them with some PB Blaster first and they pop right out. Do it in the morning when the pipes are still cold, they heat up pretty quickly. The hardest part on the front ones is getting to the connectors.

[Vehi-Cross-Az]

good thread, and info
just wanted to add my 2¢ for those who want to clean
their MAF sensors.
When I do mine, I take mine off completely
I use white vineger (a mild acid) to clean mine.
Its cheap, works great and plenty of it around.
You can even soak the wire in the vinegar in a bowl
if you want for a few hours..
And when done just rinse it off with warm water.
Let air dry and install.

Triathlete, you should try to swing by my shop
someday. Its on 1st ave just north of Grant rd.