Why doesn't anyone ever mention the tricky tool needed to get the MAF out to clean it?
That was a total head ache finding out the hard way.

You people giving advice, if you don't give the full story on how to avoid pit falls, you are doing a disservice.

 

that tricky tool you speak of can be picked up in a kit full of bits called security bits its just a torx with a hole in the middle. But you dont need to take it out to clean it, just take the whole housing out.

 

hmm i wonder if the whole battery code is an 02 and up thing? mine you have to and its 02

 

When I had to replace the TB, I had to unplug the battery. My radio required a code for it to be of use again. The Stealership wanted me to bring the car in to get the code. Saying they had to connect the car to their main computer to get the code. Forgot what they wanted to charge me for it. So I said screw it and replaced it with an aftermarket radio... I should mention that my TT is an '01.

 

Ok, I'm embarrassed to say that I still have not tried this fix yet...partially because the code did not return for a while after taking the TT out of winter hibernation (removed it earlier with my OBD reader), and partially because I was dealing with a Saab Viggen sludge issue. I was talking to my mechanic (non-dealer) about the TT issue and he did confirm that the MAF was likely the issue due based on experience. However, the fix is about $500. A couple related questions...

1. There were a couple recommendation to use MAF cleaner on mine. Is it known that the TT's MAF problem can be fixed by cleaning or is it generally an internal failure?
2. In searching for replacement units, I found a couple different Bosch parts (SKU: W0133-1601920 and -1816705) for $173 and $283. Does anyone know the difference between these two and why the cheaper one would have a 2-star rating versus 5-star? Cardone also makes one. Any recommendations?
3. How urgent of a problem is this? Could I be running lean enough to risk burning the valves, or is this just an emissions issue?

Thanks,
Mike

 

LOL... righty-tighty, lefty-loosey...

 

MAF cleaner is more a preventative maintenance thing than miracle worker (although it's saved my butt before), but your issue might be intermittent. The little "ball" sensor (shaped like a match head) should have a somewhat shiny finish when you're done. Remember, hold the MAF downward (electronics facing up) when you spray, and let it dry sufficiently.

Also, for any members that aren't clear... make sure to use the pointy end of the screwdriver