For a couple weeks now ive been fighting with an SES code, P0171 system too lean bank 1. I took it to the shop where I discovered I had a plethora of exhaust leaks as well as a fuel system in need of some extensive cleaning. In addition I was informed that the MAF sensor was bad. The exhaust was fixed however due to the financial strain I opted not to repair the other issues. My question is whether or not it is likely that the MAF is just dirty, or is it really shot? Ive heard of people replacing it and it not solving anything. My car is running perfectly fine with the exception of a stall out when its cold every once in a while, it doesnt happen often. Also, its only running lean on one side, I feel like if it were a bad MAF both sides would be having issues. I plan on having the entire fuel delivery system cleaned extensively, but I was just wondering if someone new anything about these MAF sensors, its gettin to be pain now.

 

I would try cleaning it first. Use brake clean, electric contact cleaner or MAF cleaner. Did they test the 02's? If one of those are bad it will say one side is either rich or lean.