MAF question
 

My MAF needs to be replaced. Porsche Center quoted me a left arm for a genuine Porsche MAF, they gave me the part number 98660612501 and Bosch´s equivilent MAF has part number 0-280-218-055. BUT, Pelican Parts specifies that IF the your car is a 2000 model (mine is a 2000), it has part number 996.606.124.00 and HAS to be replaced with the same type and part number.

So I find it strange that Porsche Center didn´t say I needed this one, but quoted me with the latest one.

So, my question is; can I safely order the latest MAF from Bosch with part number 98660612501 and just make sure I update the latest DME software to accommodate the newer style sensor?

Here is what Pelican Parts are saying about MAFs and read also the chart of part numbers:

If you own a 2000 Boxster or 2000 Boxster S, then you need to make sure that you have the proper sensor installed. Much confusion lies in the fact that most people don't know if their car has been updated by Porsche or not. If the old sensor that you removed is 996.606.124.00, then you need to replace it with the same part number (or have Porsche update your DME software to accommodate the newer style sensor: see Technical Service Bulletin 1/00 2445 Air Flow Sensor -- dated 4-18-00). If the old sensor you're removing ends in 125.00 or 125.01, then replace it with 986.606.125.01 (the latest version available).

Read more here: Pelican Technical Article: Troubleshooting and Replacing the Boxster Mass Air Flow Sensor (MAF) - 986 / 987

My 2000 Boxster S required the 125 sensor which is significantly more expensive.

The easiest way to tell is remove the old one first. The part number is on it.

If you are having minor problems you may just want to clean and re-use the old one.

Thanks for the reply. Thing is I´d just rather order the correct part rather than trying to clean it (I know, I know.. but I am tired of not having the car 100%) and I´d really like to know if the the latest updated sensor with part number (Porsche) 986.606.125.01 / (Bosch) 0-280-218-055 fits my car (since it is the latest one) or if it HAS to be the 996.606.124.00 / 0-280-218-009 one.

The MAF could conceivably just be dirty. Unscrew and unplug it, grip it by the plastic (be sure not to touch the sensor itself) and spray it with electrical contact cleaner (or specialized MAF cleaner if that makes you happy). Save on parts and labor if nothing was wrong.

I appreciate the fact that you would like to save me money, but I had my Boxster at my local Porsche Center to fix my tiptronic tranny and they said it´s no point of cleaning it. Obviously, they want to make as much money out their customers, but I´d like to have peace of mind and just replace it with a new part.

So, anyone know if I´m safe to get the 125.01 and just update the DME software or do I HAVE to get the 124.00 one?

I can tell you this; before understanding that there were several distinct models available, I bought one of the low-cost ebay items that others have had good results with. It didn't work AT ALL. The engine would barely run. I returned it and got the "125" from Pelican, which worked fine. I'd go with Pelican's advice to get a replacement that matches the existing part number.

Original Porsche or Bosch parts is my only alternative here, sorry to hear about your bad experience though.

Edit: this is strange. Part number for (my) 2000 mod 2.7L is 0-280-218-009 according to Pelican Parts. Searching for that number, Bosch is saying that 0-280-218-009 is only for the 2.5 (97-99 mod) only.

If you have a 125 you have to use a 125 or the updated 125-01. You cannot use the 124 and if you have the 124 and use a 125 you need an update . Remove yours first to verify part number as shipping is obviously going to be expensive for you

This write up has everything you need to know Scroll to the bottom for part numbers

https://sites.google.com/site/mikefocke2/checkenginelightcausedbymassairflowsensor

Great feedback. Yes, checking the part number on the MAF installed in my Box atm is becoming quite clear to me that it is something I need to do before deciding on which MAF to order. So I guess my question is answered. Thanks again guys, always much appreciated :cheers:

Talked to the main tech guy at Porsche Center who were wrenching my Box the last few days and he said the newest 125.01 is fine (Bosch part number - 0280218055) because he actually had one he put in and checked himself. He also updated to the latest DMe software. I have ordered one now..

Hi, not sure what you ended up paying but this MAF sensor can range into the 300-400 dollar mark, especially from a PORSCHE dealer. I got an interchangeable part on eBay, paid $99 for a new one, works perfectly for my 2001 986. No cel in months, I tried cleaning my old one but the cel came back on after 2 weeks.

BuyAutoParts: $98.95 on eBay
Mass Air Flow Meter
New: A brand-new, unused, unopened, undamaged item in its original packaging
Yes
Other Part Number: 98660612501

Manufacturer Part Number: 0280218055 , 0 280 218 055

NEW SENSORS
Interchange Part Number: 986 606 125 01

Hi Soucorp, thank you so much for wanting to help me out with your tips for parts.

I did order a Bosch one for $200 and hopefully it will last long. Part number 0280218055.

Porsche Air Mass Sensor Bosch 0280218055 New MAF | eBay