I recently sent my MAF to K&N for testing because the CAI set off the ABS/PMS & CEL. I had an apt to have a small dent removed a few miles from home & condsidered sealing the little port in the K&N intake tube where the MAF is mounted so I could drive a few miles.
I quickly sobered up & cancelled the apt. but I'm still curious about the ramifications. Because of the sequence of events with the ABS/PMS/CEL I was probably driving on a bad MAF for a few days anyway, so the question is -
In general, is driving w/o the MAF the same as driving with a bad MAF?

 

If I remember correctly, the MAF is the sensor that determines how much fuel goes in to match the amount of air going in. A bad one might return an incorrect reading, resulting in a lean/rich condition, but none at all would probably not run.

Theoretical question for the fuel gurus out there: Would it be possible to convert the MAF to an MAP sensor? What issues would there be with this? I know my car has an MAP, and intakes are super-easy, never have any problems with the sensor.

 

Ok...funny this just happened to me. (by accident)
I too have the K&N. I cleaned the MAF with electrical cleaner and I installed the dry air filter. I drove out of the casa for about 1/2 mile (if that) and noticed that the AC was not cooling. Then I remembered that I didnt connect the MAF. I immediatly pulled over and plugged it in. Turned the car back on and AC was cold again! Then 5 miles later my CEL went on again
Actually my CEL had been on prior to the install of the K&N. My indie told me that it was a small sensor that needed to be replaced (he pulled the code and figured it out) I am going to take it in this week to have that part swapped out. Then I will update.

 

Yes, it is safe to drive around (not track the car) without a MAF. The default fuel maps will take over for you.

 

When the ECU detects a faulty MAF sensor, or even not plugged in, 1999porsche911, is right. The ECU will default to a standard fuel map, which is most likely a "rich" mapping. Other systems use the MAF for their inputs, such as the traction control, etc. AC not working is something I have not heard of yet, but I guess it's possible.

 

My car actually drove very well, maybe better, with the MAF not connected. I did get a CEL though.
I forgot to connect it back up after changing out the coolant tank.