Between very fine dirt and the trend towards oiled filters it's very important to clean the MAF. Cleaning the MAF has so many benefits it's unreal. Between reducing pinging, increasing mileage, and preventing it from burning out (saving yourself $$$) there's no reason to not clean the MAF sensor once every 6 months. Also clean it shortly after installing or reinstalling an oil filed air filter.
You don't need many tools. As a matter of fact, a screwdriver and the pictured stuff is all you'll need:
Now, it's time for an important note. You see that big red aerosol can? It's ELECTRICAL CONTACT CLEANER. This is the only thing you should use to clean your MAF. Only ELECTRICAL CONTACT CLEANER. No windex, no carb cleaner, no brake cleaner, no rubbing alcohol, and no Q-Tips.
Step 1: Open the hood and locate your air box. If you can't find it...please stop right now and have a friend clean your MAF for you.
Step 2: Open the airbox and move the assembly up to give you room to work.
Step 3: Locate the plug on the bottom and move the grommet down to give you room. See picture.
Step 5: Reach in and disconnect the wiring harness from the MAF. Don't rip the wires or anything!
Step 6: Remove the assembly. Locate the MAF and remove the two screws holding it in.
Step 8: The installation is the reversal.
Do this once every 6 months and your MAF will continue to be clean and your performance won't suffer.