I really need someone's help on this problem I've been having lately with my car running like crap at startup...I'm totally lost.

My '98 Eldo runs extremely rough at cold start, and the RPMs fluctuate between 200 and 3,000 for about 20 seconds until the SES light comes on, and then the car runs smooth (I'm assuming it's going into limp-mode or something). The code I keep getting is P0101 Current (MAF sensor reading out of predetermined range), and usually I can clear this code (and keep it off) after the engine warms up, but while it's cold, it'll come back on if I clear it. I've replaced the MAF sensor twice, and neither sensors solved the problem. I also replaced the air and fuel filters, cleaned out the intake/TB, and cleaned that sensor attached to the air filter box, but nothing has solved this problem. So why is doing this? It only does this when it's below 40 degrees outside, so it must be temperature-related. Please give me any suggestions! Thanks!!

Larry

Just a shot in the dark here but, check the IAC (idle air control) valve on the side of the TB. It is basically an air bypass circuit to control idle speed. Kind of like holding the throttle open a bit. Perhaps the valve is bad or the air passage clogged. Also check the FPR for leaks. How about the MAF sensor connector? Clean and tight? Still have the air flow straightener in there?

Thanks for the advice...I'll take a look at this tomorrow. As far as the MAF sensor, everything seems good. I had a shop test the connections to it and they said everything checked out ok...so the wiring isn't a problem. That's all I know for now.

The MAF code could be caused by the erratic idle speed or a stall condition. MAF DTCs are an indication that the computer saw an improper amount of air for a given engine rpm, but if it fluctuates bad enough your other condition could be setting the code.
Do you have any mods to your air induction system? Leaks in the induction tubing or improper airflow to the MAF can cause codes like this (like a cold air kit) You could have a vacuum leak on your intake somewhere or possibly even blown head gaskets causing a misfire and unstable idle on a cold start.
There are several things you could look into but I'd stay away from thowing any more sensors at it.

I don't know if this helps anything, but on my old Deville I'd get a SES code that translated to "RPMS too High" on cold days and cold cold starts, mostly in the mornings. It was one I would just ignore and write off as due to really cold temps.

No mods whatsoever. I'll check for vacuum leaks. The only things I did recently was change the battery and the two torque arm struts...I have no idea if this has anything to do with it, but ever since then the idle has been constant (no fluctuating whatsoever), although P0101 still comes on after about 30 seconds when it's cold. ?!

Thanks for your help.

Vacuum leaks is correct. This is the problem my 2001 SLS had, and the engine would literally agitate like a washing machine at idle. In my case, the car had a huge crack in the intake manifold big enough that any idle speed would cause trouble. In your case you could have a small enough leak it only occurs until the engine warms up and whatever material is leaking expands.

The best way to test this is to get a can of carb cleaner and liberally spray over the intake system carefully until you hear the engine RPMs rise. When that occurs, it will help you better determine where the leak could be coming from.

Do NOT spend anymore money on MAF Sensors, they are ridiculously expensive.

I'll do this...really appreciate your advice! This problem has been driving me nuts. At least I was able to return the other MAF sensors, and I did a thorough cleaning of the good one I originally had. I'll keep ya posted.