2020 Toyota Tacoma 12k miles. There is a filter above my air filter. I keep my filter clean, so do I really need the extra filter?And how do I get my Mass Air Flow sensor out for cleaning? I can't get it to unclip or squeeze to release. Robert M.
You only need one air filter.
sometimes the clamp is hard to squeeze. You can pliers to unclog it but be cautious not to brake it.
NEVER spray the MAF sensor while it is connected to the battery. You most likely will ruin the sensor. AND, you won't need reprogramming for after removing and cleaning the MAF sensor.
Vehicle manufacturers spend millions on engineering. There is a reason for everything they put on a vehicle.
Keep the air filtration as is. Modifying it could affect how the engine runs. Air volume and velocity is engineered into the system. Mass air flow sensor, piping, ecm software, etc.
What ever you do don't install one of those oiled air filters...the oil from them can ruin a mass air flow sensor. That tiny coated wire is sensitive to dust and won't tolerate oil.
Rather the removing the sensor...just spray a little mass air flow sensor cleaner in it. If you remove it from the engine you might have to follow an exact procedure for the ecm to recognize it and the ecm to relearn. I not up to date on that engine, it may be require a dealer "tool" for a reset after installation.
