157 Mass Air Flow signal is/was low or grounded - MAF
what is wrong? how do i fix it? thanks in advance

 

I'm taking this is a OBDII P0157 code?

 

no sorry its an obd1 code off of a 1995 5.0 with a k&n intake i put on it. i have reset the computer several times and this code just keeps comin back.

 

I don't have an OBDI Code 157 in my Haynes. Try and read them again.

 

Not sure about the code either, but too much oil on the K&N filter will coat the MAF sensor and trigger a code.

 

"DTC 157 indicated the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor signal went below .4V sometime during the last 80 warm-up cycles.

Possible causes:

• Poor continuity in MAF sensor harness or connector
• Intermittent open or short in MAF sensor or harness
• Damaged MAF sensor
• Idle Air Control (IAC) system failure (at closed throttle position)

-Clear continuous memory, "pull negative battery cable"
Start engine and idle for 5 to 10 minutes
Vehicle in "park" or "neutral."
Run the throttle up to 1500 RPM for 10 seconds.
Allow to return to idle
Key "ON", engine "OFF."
Run Self-Test to observe Continuous Memory DTC's" -@LLD@T@

Did the continuous code return?

In other words, DO NOT USE OIL BATH AIR FILTERS ON MAF SYSTEMS. Believe what you want, do what you want but i'm telling you it is a very very bad idea! The reason why is engines create an incredible amount of vacuum at idle (17-18In-Hg) that will pull the oil straight through the MAF and I don't care if ONE drop of oil is used. This is, after all, my opinion so take it for what its worth.

I predict the MAF heating element (hot wire) and ambient element (cold wire) sensors are coated in oil. You can try cleaning the sensor with aerosol electronic cleaner by CRC, wait 10 minutes and spray it again. See if the signal return voltage goes back in range. Ensure there is 12V reference voltage (VPWR) and if the signal return voltage is still below .4V, replace the MAF.

 

 

Note: When checking the MAF connector with a multimeter, back-probe with sewing needles by guiding them in line with the wire past the rubber boot until they bottom out on the terminal inside. Do not puncture the wire insulation or force leads into the rubber boot, this can cause high resistance from corrosion due to moisture accumulation down the road.

 

is there a special thing i need to clean it with?

 

As was mentioned, "You can try cleaning the sensor with aerosol electronic cleaner by CRC", Or ask for "MAF Cleaner". Use spray, don't touch filiments w/ finger.