ml430 99 mass air flow sensor

That's the same part number that's on my 99 E55. I had to have it replaced at 39,000 miles. My car has 42,500 and has no problem with the new unit. I'm keeping my fingers crossed. I have heard that these are a finicky design.

I have heard a lot of other ML owners complain about MAS failures after 50K miles or so, but none so close after replacement.

Don't you get warranty on failed parts? We do in the UK, 1 year, covers parts and labour involved in replacing defective component.

Just replaced mine. Super easy to do. Part is expensive. Bryan

Yes, a very easy job. However, if I knew that it was the culprit, I think I would try to clean it before replacing it. Besides, what have you got to lose if you are going to buy a new one anyhow? There are plenty of posts on various Internet forums describing how to do this (many of them are on the Lexus forum). Apparently, you take it off and use a combination of Gumout cleaner and compressed air.

Thanks Rodney. I didn't know that it just needed cleaning. I'll keep the old one around for later use. Next time I'll try cleaning it. Bryan