DIY: Clean or Replace MAF Sensor on R50 Pathfinder or QX4

Steps: 

-Remove the 10mm nuts and bolts securing the air box filter. Red Arrows
-Remove the two plastic hoses on top of the air box. One of the hoses attaches to a metal nipple at the end of the air box. Blue Arrows.
-Loosen the MAF clamp with a Phillips screwdriver. 

-Remove the four 10mm bolts holding the MAF to the rear of the air box. Red Circles.
-One of the plastic tubes on top of the air box plugs into the metal nipple circled in blue. It may be difficult to remove the tube and will take some time. Be careful not to bend or clamp the metal nipple.

-Remove the electrical plug from the MAF sensor. Circled in Red.

-Remove the air box assembly and then remove the MAF. I had difficulty removing the MAF without taking out the air box assembly. I was worried about damaging the intake boot which is why I removed the air box assembly first.

-Once the MAF is removed, you can take out the sensor by removing the two bolts holding it into place. Red Arrow.

-Use CRC 05110 Mass Air Flow Sensor Cleaner - 11 Wt Oz. to clean the MAF sensor. Do not touch the sensor or wipe it with a towel, let it air dry. Spray the cleaner directly onto the sensor highlighted in green.

Installation is the reverse of removal. Pretty simple.

I suggest using Super Lube 21030 Synthetic Grease (NLGI 2), 3 oz Tube on the hose that attaches to the back of the air box for easier installation and removal.

Now is also a good time to replace the air filter if it is dirty and clogged. I use K&N 33-2031-2 High Performance Replacement Air Filter because of its high performance and re-usability.

Why clean your MAF sensor? 
Dirty MAF sensor results in poor gas mileage, loss of power, difficulty starting, engine stalling, and lean or rich idling. If the MAF sensor is extremely dirty, you may get a check engine light.

Take the time to clean your MAF sensor on a periodic basis, it only takes a short amount of time and will save you money at the pump.

Note:
If the mass air flow sensor meter is cracked or warped, you need to replace it. I recommend buying this one.

If the sensor itself is damaged and cleaning does your fix your issues, you need to buy a new sensor. I recommend the Delphi AF10163