Security torx screws on MAF sensor - help!

[Dave2001S]

Hoping someone can help me with this. I am trying to remove the MAF sensor to inspect and clean. My understanding is it is held in place with two T20 security torx screws. I have what I believe is the proper tool, but it just doesn't insert and seat properly in the screw so I can't turn it. My question is, are there special security torx bits that are required? Is there a way of getting these annoying screws out anyway? I purchased a set of bits off Amazon, however maybe they are just junky? Or can anyone recommend a place where I can buy a more appropriate tool? Help!

[Quadcammer]

They are security pentalobe, not standard torx (5 groves instead of 6). Amazon or autoparts store should be able to help you.

[Dave2001S]

Thanks for the reply. The small bit set I have says 5 point so wouldn't that be right? I'm wondering if the small post inside the star area is flattened out from a prior removal. Is there a way of getting these things out with some other tool?

[Dave2001S]

BTW, I just took a closer look with a magnifying glass and it seems to me the screws have 6 points, not 5. That could explain things. Why the need for security screws anyway?

[Gilles]

Dave, I also bought a 'special safety Torx' set and didn't work either...

But I easily removed the screws with a needle (pointed..?) pliers, they are not really tight, however I did it with the small plenum that holds the MAF sensor out of the car.

Good luck!

[Dave2001S]

That's interesting Gilles, I'll give it a try with a pair of needle-nosed pliers as you suggest. Can you clarify what you mean by 'the small plenum'?

[Dave2001S]

NVM, I think I get it

[Dave2001S]

Tried the needle-nose pliers approach, no-go. If and when I do get these things out I plan to replace with normal screws.

[BoxsterSteve]

Originally Posted by Dave2001S

Or can anyone recommend a place where I can buy a more appropriate tool? Help!

Those fasteners are indeed Security Torx. Got my set of bits at Princess Auto. They are Canada's equivalent to Harbor Freight.

[dlud]

On my 986 maf holder (2000) the screw is 6 point. On a 987 maf holder that I have the security screw is 5 point. Go figure.

[Dave2001S]

I'm wondering, has anyone ever replaced those awful security screws with a normal screw or torx? If so, where did you find? BTW, I purchased another set of torx bits from Amazon, this time 6 point.

[BoxsterSteve]

Originally Posted by Dave2001S

I'm wondering, has anyone ever replaced those awful security screws with a normal screw or torx? If so, where did you find? BTW, I purchased another set of torx bits from Amazon, this time 6 point.

I just reused them.
The original MAF lasted 17 years, I can live with taking out the same annoying fasteners in 17 more years.

[Topless]

Originally Posted by Dave2001S

I'm wondering, has anyone ever replaced those awful security screws with a normal screw or torx? If so, where did you find? BTW, I purchased another set of torx bits from Amazon, this time 6 point.

Yes, I see no benefit to having a lame torx fastener into plastic so I went digging into my fastener drawer and found some common Phillips head that were a good match. I never looked back. Needle nose vice grips take em right out.

Germans do so many things so well and then... Torx??? Really??? :chicken:

[paulofto]

Originally Posted by BoxsterSteve

Those fasteners are indeed Security Torx. Got my set of bits at Princess Auto. They are Canada's equivalent to Harbor Freight.

Me too, worked like a charm. Ya gotta love Princess Auto!

[Van914]

Got mine at Lowe’s

[geetee]

they can also be removed with a flatscrew that fits between the points and center post

[NewArt]

Interesting: the more recent maf uses the 5 point screws but the old one used the 6 point. I just removed my 5 point without the proper tool: I used my multitool do cut a slot in the screw head and used a regular screwdriver to remove them.