I think its the maf. I bought generic one and im having this problem.
I have 3 bad sensors now.

U said urself when u disconnect maf or map it works.

For some reason i have the same problem when the car gets hot.

Get only oem maf.

Btw. Ur mechanic if he checked the code he could offer u to check the maf before replacing the gasket. Im assuming u paid almost $500.

When the car dies from coolant leak on the high way it wouldn't turn on (had that too)

Try a new maf.