Could an improper seal on my fuel suction assembly be causing these issues?

[B.B._07]

Originally Posted by ThrowingChicken

I can't say, he made it sound like a misfire could contribute to dirtying up the sensor faster.

I actually have 127,000 miles, so I'm there.

I should have been more clear with my comment, there is no way a misfire is somehow making the MAF sensor dirty. The MAF sensor is located behind the air filter and whatever is happening is the combustion camber and cylinder can't make it any more dirty or clean.

Reading the plugs won't be very useful unless one looks drastically different from the the others. Like the Autozone printout for a P0171 lean code is suggesting verify you have good fuel pressure first. Then you'll know for sure whether a new fuel pump will solve your problem or will be a waste of money. Renting specialty tools from Autozone is free (there is a refundable deposit) so there's no reason not do it.