How to Replace the Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor on a 2018 Nissan Murano
Step-by-step DIY instructions with tools, parts list, safety tips, and torque specs for 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024
How to Replace the Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor on a 2018 Nissan Murano
Step-by-step DIY instructions with tools, parts list, safety tips, and torque specs for 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024
š§ Murano - Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Replacement
The MAF sensor measures how much air enters your engine so the computer can set the correct fuel mixture. A faulty MAF can cause rough idle, hesitation, poor fuel economy, or a check engine light.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.3-0.7 hours
ā ļø Safety & Precautions
- ā ļø Let the engine cool before working near the intake.
- ā ļø Turn ignition fully OFF and keep the key away from the vehicle.
- ā ļø Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent electrical damage.
- ā ļø Do not touch the sensor element inside the MAF; itās delicate.
- ā ļø Do not drop screws into the air intake tube.
š§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- 10mm socket
- 1/4" drive ratchet
- 6" extension (1/4" drive)
- Phillips #2 screwdriver
- Torx T20 screwdriver
- Trim clip removal tool
- Small flat-blade screwdriver
- Flashlight
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses
š© Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Mass air flow (MAF) sensor - Qty: 1
- MAF sensor O-ring/seal (if not included) - Qty: 1
- Dielectric grease (electrical connector) - Qty: 1
š Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and shift to Park.
- Open the hood and make sure the engine is cool to the touch.
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal: use a 10mm socket and move the cable aside so it canāt spring back.
- Locate the MAF: itās mounted in the air intake tube near the air filter box, with an electrical connector plugged into it.
šØ Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Remove any covers blocking access
- Use a trim clip removal tool to pop up any plastic push-clips (a push-clip is a plastic fastener that āpopsā in/out).
- If equipped with a top engine cover, remove it by hand or remove fasteners with a 10mm socket.
- Use a flashlight to clearly see the MAF and its wiring connector.
Step 2: Unplug the MAF electrical connector
- Press the connector lock tab by hand; if itās stubborn, gently help it with a small flat-blade screwdriver.
- Pull the connector straight off the sensor (donāt pull on the wires).
- Tip: Wiggle gently; donāt force it.
Step 3: Remove the MAF sensor from the intake tube
- Remove the MAF mounting screws using a Torx T20 screwdriver.
- Set the screws somewhere safe so they canāt fall into the engine bay.
- Carefully pull the MAF sensor straight out of the intake tube.
- If it feels stuck, gently twist while pullingādo not pry on the plastic housing.
Step 4: Transfer/inspect the seal and install the new MAF
- Check for an O-ring/seal on the old sensor or in the intake tube opening.
- If your new MAF did not come with a seal, install a new MAF sensor O-ring/seal in the same position.
- Slide the new MAF sensor into the intake tube in the same orientation as the old one.
- Install the screws by hand first to avoid cross-threading, then tighten with a Torx T20 screwdriver.
- Torque to 2.0-3.0 Nm (18-27 in-lbs)
Step 5: Reconnect the electrical connector
- Apply a tiny amount of dielectric grease to the connector seal (not the metal pins).
- Push the connector on until it clicks/locks.
Step 6: Reinstall covers and reconnect the battery
- Reinstall any covers/clips you removed using a trim clip removal tool and/or 10mm socket.
- Reconnect the negative battery cable using a 10mm socket.
- Torque to 5-6 Nm (44-53 in-lbs)
ā After Repair
- Start your Murano and let it idle for 2ā3 minutes.
- Verify the idle is smooth and the engine doesnāt stumble when you lightly rev it.
- Take a short 10-minute test drive and confirm acceleration feels normal.
- If the check engine light was on, it may clear after a few drive cycles; otherwise, a scan tool can clear codes after confirming the fix.
- If symptoms remain, inspect the intake tube for cracks and check that hose clamps are tight.
š° DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $180-$380 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $90-$260 (parts only)
You Save: $90-$120 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.5-0.8 hours.
šÆ Ready to get started?
HowToo makes it easy: same-day/2-day shipping on every part, plus all the tools and specialty tools you need! Check out the parts and tools sections below to add everything to your cart.


















