maf sensor or not?

[carpysmith]

Hi all!
I,ve been having a problem with a lack of power in my hdi Xantia. This morning out of curiosity i unplugged the maf sensor and the car now goes like a scalded cat!! so i am therefore assuming maf sensor must be faulty??
Can anyone on here tell me the best place to get one from, i can get one from a local (to me ) motor factors for 80 odd quid (ouch!!). Have seen them on fleabay for about 30 quid but have seen one or two threads on here with people saying the cheap fleabay ones are about as much use as a chocolate teapot!!
Also is it ok to run car with maf unplugged till i can get a new one??
Thoughts anyone?
Regards
Steve (aka carpysmith)
1999 Xantia 2.0hdi sx (estate)

[oneday]

have you tried cleaning the maf

[carpysmith]

Not tried cleaning it, not sure what would be the best stuff to clean it with! I believe they are a bit delicate to muck about with as well?
Regards
Steve

[oneday]

contact cleaner remove maf you will see two fine wires like bulb filaments dont touch these just spray with cleaner untill all is clean and refit maf

[carpysmith]

Cheers for that! will give that a go before i buy a new one!!
Regards
Steve.

[myglaren]

Carburettor cleaner is good too.

[carpysmith]

Hi All!
Just a quick update!
Tried the copious spraying with contact cleaner approach, made no difference! so I bit the bullet and went and bought a new one! car now goes like it,s got a rocket up it,s backside!! Probably the best it,s been since i,ve owned it!!
Regards
Steve (aka carpysmith)
1999 Xantia 2.0hdi sx (estate)

[oneday]

how much was the maf and what make is it

[carpysmith]

Hi there!
It was 87 quid with the vat!! but it is a genuine siemens one! prob could have got one cheaper but needed it in a hurry, (long drive tomorrow!) I think they are available on fleabay for about 30+ quid but as i mentioned earlier i am not convinced the cheap ones are any good??
At least it is sorted now!!
Regards
Steve (aka carpysmith)
1999 Xantia 2.0hdi sx (estate)