I started pulling the intake system apart this afternoon. And it didn't take long to find a leak behind the MAF sensor. In fact, it was the rubber hose between the MAF tube and the pipe to the throttle body. The rubber was dry rotted and the hose was splitting between the corrugations. There were at least 4 gaping holes that I could stick my fingers through. I think part of the problem is due to the body lift - the filter box has been lifted a few inches higher, but the engine hasn't. It seems the extra stretch on the old rubber was just too much. So I'm looking for a flexible hose to replace it... one that will fit without strain.

The problem for me is, living in California, any part of the air intake or emissions system that isn't designed for a vehicle (i.e. isn't OEM-spec) isn't legal. The vehicle won't pass the smog inspection. Only aftermarket parts that are California Air Resource Board (CARB) certified are legal. K&N makes some cold air intakes that are CARB certified. But I don't know which, if any, will fit the Sportage. And since they sell for $250 USD, I'm not interested in going that route. I think I've found a potential solution using silicone intake tubes.. I'm going to measure the spacing and angles between the MAF and TB pipe tomorrow and see if I can find a combination of elbows that will do the job. Then I'll work on finding an OEM hose to install once every 2 years, when my smog test is due... <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/nana.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/notooth.gif" alt="" />