I have a 2000 SS that's pushing 200K, I have now had to replace the MAF sensor twice in the last 4 years. Is this a common problem with 3800 series II motors? I have never had to replace one before on other vehicles Iv'e owned.

 

Are you running an oiled air filter?

What are you replacing it with? Are they high quality replacements?

 

A MAF sensor should last longer then a couple of years. Was any attempt made to clean the 'bad' sensors? A dirty MAF sensor will cause the PCM to set a code and illuminate the CEL, but it doesn't always mean the sensor needs to be replaced. Over time the elements in the sensor will become dirty and won't measure air flow correctly. If you live in a dusty area or where there is a lot of pollution this problem is more frequent. Aerosol MAF cleaner is available at most part stores. If you ever do have to replace the MAF though, you'll have longer service life using an AC Delco or Delphi sensor.

 

Okay, to answer the first question, no, the car is equipped with the oem A/F unit and I replace the filter every other oil change. I replaced the original MAF sensor because the car would randomly stall, like every few months or so and throw a P0101 code indicating a MAF sensor failure, otherwise the car ran fine. I cleaned the original sensor a few times with aerosol cleaner and still had problems. I purchased a new (not a remanufactured) Cardone replacement 4 years ago and all was fine up until about 2 weeks ago, I started the car and after 20 sec. or so it stalled and would not start again, plugged in my OBD II and P0101 code again, cleared code car would start but stall again and same code. I removed the cardone unit and put the old oem sensor back on and the car started up and ran fine. I did not clean the cardone sensor because it appeared clean and there was a lifetime warranty on it. Exchanged sensor replaced it and vehicle started and ran fine for a week, then check engine light appeared and showed a P0108 code indicating a MAP/BARO circuit high input. I replaced the MAP sensor and found and repaired a cracked vacuum hose. Now the car runs perfect again and no check engine light. Would the MAP sensor/ vac leak, have or cause an effect on the MAF sensor?

 

A vac leak can cause issues

Another test you can do for the MAF if you are having problems is just unplugging it and starting the car If you still have problems, it might not be the MAF sensor

 

dirty maf are not so easy to see if they are dirty. clean maf, and throttle body with some brake cleaner. the wire inside the maf can get just a small layer of dust on it and cause problems. fords, in particular, are notorious about this.

 

check the wiring and connectors. that was my problem.