A new MAF is a bit on the expensive side. I don't think there is a code that says the MAF is BAD, but rather the reading is above or below some range. Often it is a crapy connection, or a dirty MAF, which can be cleaned with Spray on MAF cleaner (alot cheaper than a new MAF) if that fails not much is lost, but if it works, you are way ahead of the game.
MAF gives air temp, and volume info to the PCM so it can adjust fuel air mixtures by modulating the IAC, and the pulse width of the fuel injectors. A faulty MAF can cause a variety of problems, so the short answer to your question is: yes.
__________________
BroncoJoe19
2006 Alt Fuel Jeep (electric)
'98 windstar 3.8L
'99 Crown Vic 4.6L
'90 Full Size Bronco 5.0L
I'm not a professional mechanic, take my suggestions with a grain of salt, or a cup of coffee 
At the bottom of each post there is a little icon 
Clicking it gives feedback to the moderators, and poster regarding which posts are most helpful.
| 
