Toyota Repair: Mass air flow sensor, mass air flow sensor, air flow sensor

Question
We have a 2001 toyota corolla with only 23,00 miles on it and just out of waranty..A light came on and we took it to a dearler. They told us that it was the mass air flow sensor and it was going to cost $500.  Isn't it too soon for that sensor to be going out, and how hard is it to repair it myself?

Answer
If you have a phillips screwdriver and follow my directions exactly I can save you about $480.
Remove the two screws that hold the MAF on the intake near the air filter, go to an auto parts store or electronic supply place and get a can of spray electronic cleaner, spray the inside of the air flow sensor, you need to get it into the small opening where the platinum sensor wires are, they get coated with dust and other gunk and confuse the computer because it gets the wrong signals,clean the wires until the look shiny, reinstall it, you may be able to clear the check engine light by disconnecting the battery and waiting 10 seconds, also replace the air filter and you should be good to go.