Okay so check engine light is on because the Mass Air flow inlet temperature sensor isn't working (integrated into the MAF). The MAF is riveted to a metal housing which the air passes through into the engine. Do I need to replace or remove the entire housing which it is rivetted to? Or can the replacement be done without this step?

EDIT: 2007 XC90 4.4L V8 Sport

 

I'd find a picture of the part for your engine on ebay or rockauto.com etc. and see if you can tell whether it comes with the metal part attached to it.