Question on Boxster Mass Air Flow Sensor

I got the CEL light and a local Porsche specialty shop diagnosed and replaced the MAF sensor. The car now runs smoother but has much less jump and power than it previously had. Further, it has a much quieter sound. My fast fun car has become a slugish cruiser. The shop suggests this is normal. In your opinion is this typical of a MAF change and if not what do you suggest has happenned and what should I do?

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This post was auto-generated based upon a question asked on our tech article page here: Pelican Technical Article: Troubleshooting and Replacing the Boxster Mass Air Flow Sensor (MAF) - 986 / 987

[Nick at Pelican Parts]

Replacing the MAF sensor should restore lost performance, not necessarily degrade it. Have them check the vehicle and see if everything is installed correctly and no fault codes are stored.

- Nick

[Caruthj]

Nick - Thanks for the response. The shop has said that the car is performing as it should. They said that they checked all codes and performance values and the car is performing as it should be.
Their response to my comments about the drop in performance it to say "that as the previous MAF was heading to failure it likely allowed the car to run leaner which both improved its jump and gave it a throatier sound but that the new, degraded power is how the car should be performing. The higher power output due to the leaner mix of fuel would risk long term damage to the engine". I am unqualified to know if this is reasonable or not although it seem strange that I would see such significant reduction in jump and power.
I am wondering if the wrong MAF installed would result in what I am experiencing: lower performance but smoother running engine. Note that the invoice gives a code of 99660612400 on the sensor. AS I did not do the work I do not know what the original sensor code was. VIN is - wp0cb298xyu663205
The shop I am using has a good reputation per internet reviews and they seem like decent guys - SCAN Automotive in North Vancouver, BC.
Your feedback is appreciated.
My next stop will likely be to take it to another shop and tell them the story and ask them to take it for a drive and see what they think.

[michaelgalassi]

Jim, can you get a chasis number for your car? The parts descriptions here:
Pelican Parts - Automotive Parts and Accessories - Porsche & BMW
Might show whether or not you got the correct MAF installed, there are three variants based on year and chasis number.