P0106 fault code: MAP sensor reading problem
Plain-language definition
Manifold Absolute Pressure/Barometric Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
What does it mean?
The manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor measures the pressure in the intake manifold; the engine computer uses this to calculate how much air is going into the engine. On turbocharged cars this sensor may also measure boost pressure. The barometric (BARO) sensor, on the other hand, measures the pressure of the outside air, and on some cars it's built into the engine computer.
P0106 is stored when the sensor's signal is electrically within limits but the pressure it measures doesn't fit the conditions. For example, with the ignition on and the engine stopped, manifold pressure should be close to outside air pressure, and with the engine running it should change with the accelerator pedal and engine speed. If the value doesn't match these expectations, the engine computer doesn't trust the reading.
You may notice an uneven idle, less power, higher fuel consumption or the engine being hard to start. On turbocharged cars the engine computer may not be able to set boost pressure correctly and may limit power.
How serious is it?
It's a Warning-level code. Because the engine computer sets the amount of air, and on turbocharged cars the boost pressure, according to this reading, the way the car drives and fuel consumption can be affected as long as the problem continues.
Severity is a guide; if the warning light is flashing or you notice symptoms while driving, have the car checked at a workshop.
Common general causes
- An air leak in the intake manifold or the turbo piping
- The MAP sensor contaminated with oil fumes or soot; on sensors connected by a hose, the hose cracking or clogging
- The MAP sensor wearing out with age, or failing
- A poor contact in the sensor connector or wiring
- The barometric pressure sensor giving wrong readings
The list shows general causes; a workshop finds the actual cause on your car with a check.
Related codes
How does it appear in the 2dakika report?
Manifold Absolute Pressure/Barometric Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
If the code is read as a confirmed (stored) fault, the report shows it with the "Warning" severity; in pending or past records, codes that don't request the warning light and aren't critical appear as "Info". If the engine computer stored them, the conditions when the fault was recorded (engine temperature, rpm, speed) are shown too.
Read this code with the OBD-X1, and clear it from the app after the repair.
Clearing the code doesn't fix the fault; if the problem persists, the code comes back.