Do I really need a new air flow meter?

[scottiebc74]

Hi There,

I have a 2000 Echo. My check engine light has been on for about one year. For the first 6 months nothing was wrong with the car. Over the last 6 months the car has been stalling occasionally.

I've read a few postings on this site regarding the MAF sensor and that cleaning it usually solves the problem. I did this, as well as pulled out the EFI fuse (well the fuse I thought was the right one), the car ran better for a bit but the check engine light stayed on. After a while the car started stalling again, and got even worse.

So....I went into a Toyota dearship today (against all of the advise of the other users on this site who have had the same problem with their Echo). The dealership told me that I need an new Air Flow Meter, which I guess is another term for the MAF sensor. The part is on order and I need to return in 4 days for installation. They also reset the Echo system and the check engine light is now off and it's running 100% better!!

Here's my question - does anyone think I should pay for a new Air Flow Meter ($225)? Or should I just keep driving and hope the problem has been solved? From the other postings I read, I followed all the instructions EXCEPT resetting the system (pulling out the fuse). Since I missed that part, and now it's been done by the dealership, will I be OK? Or should I fork out the money to be on the safe side?

Any advise would be GREATLY appreciated!

Cheers!

[n00b]

Why did you pull out a fuse instead of disconnecting the battery? When you disconnect the battery, The ECU will re-map and the CEL will be cleared. If there's still a problem, the CEL will light up again.

No need to pay for a part you don't need. Your car is fine now.

Driving with a CEL on for 1 year is not a smart thing to do.

[DaemonSpawn]

Yes, it'll make the world of difference. I had to replace my O2 and Maf sensors (Canadian 460$ + tax + labour of about $80) and the car runs like new since. Even noticed major improvement in fuel consumption.