hi guy im new around here so be nice

i have a golf 1.8 20v turbo (150bhp 98 plate) and i just wanted to ask a question about the maf,
with mine plugged in or unplugged it drives the same, is this right

ive tried to use the search but its v confusing and loads of post on maf but cant find any with my problem if it is a problem.
there is no dash light coming on ( engine mang) and i dont have a vagcom to scan it, does any one know any where around gosport portsmouth area that are good with vw???
thanks rick