What Does P0106 Mean?
The manifold absolute pressure sensor is providing readings that are outside the expected range for the current engine operating conditions, but the circuit is electrically valid. The MAP sensor signal does not correlate with throttle position, RPM, and other engine parameters. This often indicates a vacuum leak, restricted vacuum hose, or a MAP sensor that is reading inaccurately. The driver may notice poor idle quality, hesitation, surging, and poor fuel economy.
Common Causes
30%
Vacuum leak at the intake manifold or vacuum hoses
25%
Cracked, kinked, or partially blocked vacuum hose to the MAP sensor
20%
Faulty MAP sensor with calibration drift
15%
Restricted exhaust or catalytic converter causing abnormal manifold pressure
10%
Dirty throttle body affecting idle air control and manifold vacuum
Diagnostic Steps
1
Compare the MAP sensor PID to a known-good vacuum gauge reading at idle — they should agree within 1-2 inHg; a large discrepancy confirms a sensor issue.
2
Inspect the vacuum hose from the intake manifold to the MAP sensor for cracks, kinks, disconnections, or carbon buildup blocking the passage.
3
Perform a smoke test on the entire intake manifold vacuum system to identify leaks — even a small leak can significantly affect MAP readings.
4
At idle, snap the throttle open and closed while watching the MAP PID — it should go from ~18-22 inHg to near atmospheric and back smoothly; erratic or slow response indicates a problem.
5
Check exhaust backpressure if no vacuum leak is found — a clogged catalytic converter will cause MAP readings to be higher than expected at idle.
6
Clean the throttle body bore and blade if it is heavily carbon-fouled — restricted idle airflow can affect MAP readings.
Estimated Repair Cost
$30 - $300
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The manifold absolute pressure sensor is providing readings that are outside the expected range for the current engine operating conditions, but the circuit is electrically valid. The MAP sensor signal does not correlate with throttle position, RPM, and other engine parameters. This often indicates ...
The most common cause of P0106 (Manifold Absolute Pressure/Barometric Pressure Circuit Range/Performance Problem) is: Vacuum leak at the intake manifold or vacuum hoses
Typical repair costs for P0106 range from $30 to $300, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Generally safe to drive with reduced performance. The PCM will attempt to compensate but fuel delivery and timing may not be optimal. Extended driving with an inaccurate MAP can cause poor economy, increased emissions, and potential catalytic converter stress.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P0106 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Fuel / Air Metering System
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
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