Hiccup

Hi, I've got a persistent problem but it's not really causing any worry; just a nuisance.
The car hiccups. It's as though fuel stops for a split second. I've read that it's the MAF sensor. There's cheap replacements but I thought the real thing from a breaker would be better. I've changed it but the same problem's there although less noticeable. I suppose being used and of unknown mileage it could have the same problem but may it be something else?
While ebaying replacements I came across maf cleaning sprays. I've got an electrical contact cleaner which I suppose does the same job and I'm trying that now.
If that doesn't fix it is it worth me getting a replacement sensor only rather than the whole caboodle - they're about 39.00 on the bay.
Is it a precurser for a future major problem?
Thanks in advance for any help.

When does it hiccup.
Is it when you go to accelerate?

Just read your other post. Take the throttle position sensor off and chech the plastic link.

Thanks Robbie. I need some help locating that. Is it at the pedal or throttle?

Side of intake manifold 3 wires I think and 2 bolts

If you haven't put any injector cleaner through it, put a bottle in with 30 litres of fuel or so and run that through completely. if it starts coughing/spluttering then you have found your problem.

try to get through the lot though as you will need to replace your fuel filter after if the system is dirty. I got about 20 miles in mine, before it died at the side of the road and had to do a fuel filter change roadside to get going again.. was fine after.

Also clogged egr can cause coughing at speed.

I run it with redex every second tank if Tesco have it for 2.00. Is injector cleaner different?

I tried the electrical contact cleaner on the replacement and it was worse. I've put the original back and living with that until I've time to work through the suggestions:
vacuum pipe at throttle body; throttle position; crank position; clean injectors.
Discovered it will run without maf sensor connected. I'll try that too.

Silly Question?
If the car runs ok with maf sensor disconnected; what's the maf sensor for?