Does my car use a MAF sensor or a MAP sensor?

Some engines use both, some use only one. MAF-based systems are more common in modern cars. Speed-density engines use only MAP. Your codes will tell you which one the computer is complaining about.

Can a bad MAP sensor cause misfires?

Yes. If the MAP sensor over-reports vacuum, the computer pulls too much fuel and can cause lean misfires. P0300 series codes alongside P0106 often trace back to the MAP.

Is P0106 the same as P0107 or P0108?

No. P0106 is a performance code for a plausible but incorrect reading. P0107 means the signal is too low. P0108 means too high. They point to different failure modes.

Codes › P0106

P0106: The MAP sensor is reading outside its expected range

Manifold Absolute Pressure/Barometric Pressure Circuit Range/Performance

Moderate severityCan you keep driving?

Yes, carefully. The engine uses the MAP sensor to calculate load. A faulty reading causes poor fuel delivery and rough running. Do not push the engine hard until this is resolved.

What it means

The manifold absolute pressure sensor measures vacuum in the intake manifold to help the computer calculate engine load. P0106 means the MAP sensor's reading does not match what the computer expects based on engine speed and other sensors. Like P0101 for the MAF, P0106 is a rationality code: the sensor is electrically alive but its values are implausible. A vacuum leak between the MAP sensor port and the manifold is the single most common and overlooked cause.

Common causes

Vacuum leak at the MAP sensor hose or portA cracked or disconnected vacuum line to the MAP sensor gives false readings. Check the hose first.
Dirty or contaminated MAP sensorCarbon or oil mist coats the sensing element and shifts its output. Cleaning sometimes helps.
Failed MAP sensorThe sensor element degrades over time and produces readings outside the expected range.
Wiring or connector faultA loose or corroded connection at the sensor shifts the reference or signal voltage.
Intake manifold leak elsewhereAny unmetered air entering the manifold changes the actual vacuum, making the sensor appear to read wrong.

What it costs

Vacuum line replacement$20 to $100
MAP sensor replacement$80 to $250
Intake manifold gasket repair$200 to $600

Symptoms

Check engine light on
Rough or erratic idle
Hesitation during acceleration
Poor fuel economy
Possibly hard to start

What to do next

Inspect the vacuum hose connected to the MAP sensor. Replace it if it is cracked, soft, or disconnected. If the hose is fine, test the MAP sensor voltage at key-on with the engine off: most sensors should read close to barometric pressure (around 1.0 bar or about 3.5-4.5 V). A sensor reading flat voltage at idle or no voltage at all points to a failed sensor or wiring fault.

Lewis shows live MAP sensor voltage and manifold pressure so you can compare readings at idle versus wide-open throttle and spot which is out of range. Download Lewis.

Related codes

FAQ

Does my car use a MAF sensor or a MAP sensor?: Some engines use both, some use only one. MAF-based systems are more common in modern cars. Speed-density engines use only MAP. Your codes will tell you which one the computer is complaining about.
Can a bad MAP sensor cause misfires?: Yes. If the MAP sensor over-reports vacuum, the computer pulls too much fuel and can cause lean misfires. P0300 series codes alongside P0106 often trace back to the MAP.
Is P0106 the same as P0107 or P0108?: No. P0106 is a performance code for a plausible but incorrect reading. P0107 means the signal is too low. P0108 means too high. They point to different failure modes.