how to disconnect MAF sensor connector

[jcattletown]

Hi, Guys:

I plan to clean the MAF sensor but could not disconnect the connector. I have 2013 X5 xDrive35i and the sensor is located in the back of engine. Can anybody shed some light? I have attached a photo. Thanks.

[msan]

If I remember correctly you push on the little tab I have circled in red. and then pull the plug off.

You can also remove the pipe its connected to so you can look at the plug better.

[SpaceGrey_E70]

You might be able to clean it without unplugging it and instead just removing the whole sensor from the pipe. There's only 2 torx screws holding it in, then just pull firmly outwards (there should be an o-ring on it that makes it fit snug).

[jcattletown]

Thank you guys, I did it today. According to the attached picture, I could not figure out how to remove the air filter cover from #1 on the right end of #3 so I decided to pull the whole thing out from #1 on the left side. That worked.

[jcattletown]

Actually, the sensor was very clean and did not look like any dirt on the wires. I cleaned them anyway but it may not need cleaning frequently. Someone suggested that it should be cleaned every time when changing the air filter. I am not so sure about that.

[msan]

Originally Posted by jcattletown

Actually, the sensor was very clean and did not look like any dirt on the wires. I cleaned them anyway but it may not need cleaning frequently. Someone suggested that it should be cleaned every time when changing the air filter. I am not so sure about that.

I'm with you. The MAF seems to be only seeing fresh air that gets filtered by the paper air filter. Don't see how it would get too dirty.

The MAP on the other hand is right in front of the throttle body and sees some oil vapor from the turbo. I could see that getting dirty. I will be changing out my charge pipe in a week or so I will take a pic of the MAP when it's out.

[msan]

Originally Posted by jcattletown

Thank you guys, I did it today. According to the attached picture, I could not figure out how to remove the air filter cover from #1 on the right end of #3 so I decided to pull the whole thing out from #1 on the left side. That worked.

Funny, I actually find detaching from the right side (when facing the engine, air box side) easier. I just loosen the clamp and pull/wiggle the airbox up and out...

[jcattletown]

Originally Posted by msan

Funny, I actually find detaching from the right side (when facing the engine, air box side) easier. I just loosen the clamp and pull/wiggle the airbox up and out...

How did you pull the rubber locks (shown by the red arrows) through the plastic ring (shown by the green arrow)? I was afraid to break the rubber locks so I loosened the other end of the pipe. I would be interested to see your work on the MAP sensor. I think it is much easier to remove with the space given.

[msan]

We might have different connections there. Looks like that pipe the MAF is in was changed for cars after 4/2012. My car is 1/2012 so I have the older pipe.

I didn't pay attention to that connection to be honest. I just loosened the clamp and tried to rip out the airbox...

Originally Posted by jcattletown

How did you pull the rubber locks (shown by the red arrows) through the plastic ring (shown by the green arrow)? I was afraid to break the rubber locks so I loosened the other end of the pipe. I would be interested to see your work on the MAP sensor. I think it is much easier to remove with the space given.

[jcattletown]

Originally Posted by msan

We might have different connections there. Looks like that pipe the MAF is in was changed for cars after 4/2012. My car is 1/2012 so I have the older pipe.

I didn't pay attention to that connection to be honest. I just loosened the clamp and tried to rip out the airbox...

I see. Thank you. Please remember to post your MAP work when you finish it.