Some of the symptoms of a dirty, failing or faulty MAF sensor include hard starting, rough idling, hesitating, surging, poor acceleration, hiccups, low fuel economy (reduced MPG), stalling, loss of power and misfiring. You may also see a CEL / SES (check engine light / service engine soon warning) on the gauge cluster. An OBDII scanner may reveal a MAF sensor related DTC (diagnostic trouble code) such as P0100, P0101, P0102, P0103 or P0104.

Owners of other General Motors vehicles from Chevy, Buick, GMC, Cadillac and Holden such as the Trax, Blazer, Traverse, Tahoe, Suburban, Cruze, Malibu, Impala, Camaro, Cascada, LaCrosse, Encore, Envision, Enclave, Regal, Canyon, Sierra, Terrain, Acadia, Yukon, Savana, XT4, XT5, XT6, Escalade, CTS, XTS, CT6, Astra, Commodore and Trailblazer may also find these DIY instructions to be helpful.

The OEM (original equipment manufacturer) part number for the MAF sensor is ACDelco 23366103.

Two other compatible sensors with their part numbers include the ACDelco 23262344 and Spectra Premium MA376.

The only tool needed to remove and replace the sensor is a Torx T20 star bit screwdriver.

If you would like to try cleaning your old sensor before buying a new one, use some CRC Mass Air Flow Sensor Cleaner spray.

The first two steps are to open the hood and then move to the left (passenger) side of the engine bay.

The mass air flow sensor is located on the right side of the plastic air intake tube in between the rubber air intake hose and the black plastic engine air filter box.

Then push down on the black plastic release tab before sliding the electrical connector straight off the old sensor.

Keep one hand under the sensor to catch the screws in case they fall out unexpectedly.

Set the two screws aside in a safe place.

Carefully slide the old MAF sensor straight out of the air intake tube.

If the old sensor is difficult to remove, you may need to gently wiggle the sensor in order to slide it out.

Try to avoid using excessive force to prevent from damaging the sensor or cracking the plastic air intake tube.

The genuine GM compatible replacement mass air flow sensor part number is ACDelco 23366103.

If you would like to try cleaning your old MAF sensor before buying a new one, carefully spray the sensor wire with some CRC Mass Air Flow Sensor Cleaner.

Allow the sensor to air dry before re-installing it.

Do not use compressed air or shake the sensor to dry it.

Spin in the two screws a few turns by hand in the clockwise direction.

Then tighten the screws with the Torx T20 star bit screwdriver until they are snug.

Try to avoid over tightening the screws to prevent from cracking the plastic housing.

You should hear or feel the power plug "click" securely into place.

Gently slide the red lock tab back towards the sensor to secure the connector.

Start the engine and listen closely for any strange sounds that may indicate an issue with the new sensor.

If you have an OBD2 scan tool, clear any MAF sensor related diagnostic trouble codes.

Be sure to record the sensor cleaning or replacement in your vehicle's service records.

For more, please check out all of my 2018-2022 GM Chevrolet Equinox DIY Repair & Maintenance Guides.