Well, after several weeks of having rough idles, slightly erratic rpms, and just all around not smooth engine behavior, i though maybe my tunes were just jacked and needed tweaking. then yesterday, when leaving work, my car wouldn't hardly start, and when it did turn over, sounded like a ragged out motor boat!!! It scared the crap out of me, sounded like it was flooded or something. well it finally started and seemed to be ok.

After researching the forums last night, i performed three maintenance tasks this morning that seem to have fixed the problem. I ran a can of seafoam in the gas, cleaned the throttle body really good with STP throttle body cleaner, and thoroughly sprayed the MAF with maf specific cleaner *don't used brake or carb cleaner*. And let me tell you boys......my car hasn't ran this smooth...EVER. not even when i first bought it (used).

My point is this, at least in texas, the pollen is so horrendous that it HAS to be having an effect on your MAF readings. so if you're having any trouble at all, go clean it. It's gonna become a regular part of my maintenance because it seems to me that your custom tunes are programmed to react from certain readings from your MAF, and if it's dirty, then it won't relay the correct info.

Just thought i'd clue in anyone who didnt' already know this, i apologize if it's common knowledge!!!

 

It was a relief to resolve that, I'm sure. Excellent work at determining what it might be and taking action.

 

just curious, how many miles on your car?

 

Thats weird how all the pollen got past the air filter.That pollen must be like a super fine dust.

 

Sound advice. It is easy to overlook or keep putting off regular maintanance. You were having symptoms and you worked them out. There are things that need to be done that never get done in the life of the car. The owner's manual can be a great read.

 

35k

it is!!! my car is constantly covered in yellowish powder. been that way foralmost 3weeks....

 

mine too man i feel your pain its so aggravating...southern GA has horrible pollen too

 

WOW good post! I live in Texas, and it is horrible. Sometimes it is so hard for me to breath! My car too!

 

i know right....i figured my car just has badd allergies just like her owner!!! lol

 

Good advice. I'm expecting the annual pollen explosion any day now here in NC - lierally clumps of pollen covering everything, including my car, which is parked outdoors under a tree all day. IfI have any issues, I'll remember this post. Thanks.