P0106 Code: Manifold Absolute Pressure/BARO Sensor Range/Performance

Excessive exhaust emissions and engine performance issues can indicate a lot of problems.  If your OBD-II scanner identifies a P0106 code after checking, your manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor and barometric air pressure (BARO) sensor may be at fault.

Address it with this comprehensive guide.

What Does the P0106 Code Mean?

Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0106 stands for “Manifold Absolute Pressure/BARO Sensor Range/Performance.” This code triggers when the powertrain control module (PCM) receives erratic MAP/BARO sensor readings. A properly functioning MAP sensor should relay a signal between 1 and 4.5 volts back to the PCM, depending on engine load. The module logs error code P0106 if it perceives that the MAP/BARO sensor signal is above or below a predetermined threshold for a certain amount of time.

Note: Although code P0106 is a generic code specified by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), the code’s definition may be different depending on the vehicle manufacturer.

What are the MAP and BARO Sensors?

The MAP sensor is a device that measures engine intake manifold pressure, while the Barometric Pressure BARO sensor measures atmospheric pressure. On most vehicles, the MAP sensor and BARO sensor are combined into a single sensor.

The PCM uses data from the MAP sensor to determine engine load, calculate fuel delivery, and (in some cases) calculate ignition timing and EGR operation. Some vehicles do not have a MAP sensor—they use a mass airflow (MAF) sensor to calculate fuel delivery instead. There are also vehicles that rely primarily on a MAF sensor and have a MAP sensor as a backup.

If you’re interested in a DIY fix for P0106, you’ll get more information from our technical discussion about intake manifold pressure.

What are the Possible Causes of the  P0106 Code?

Listed below are several common issues that may cause a P0106 code to trigger.

• Defective MAP/BARO sensor
• Electrical fault (open, short, or high resistance in the circuit)
• Vacuum leaks
• Defect in the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system
• PCM issues, such as software in need of an update

Note: If there are other codes stored in addition to P0106, the code’s common causes and symptoms may differ from those listed here.

What are the Common Symptoms of the P0106 Code?

Here are some common symptoms that accompany the engine code P0106.

Get your vehicle checked as soon as you get this MAP sensor code to resolve engine performance issues.

Check Engine Light is triggered

When the PCM perceives a problem with the MAP sensor signal, it turns on the check engine light and stores code P0106 in its memory.

Excessive exhaust emissions

If code P0106 is triggered, there’s a good chance your vehicle’s tailpipe emissions will increase. This is because an improper MAP sensor signal can throw off the engine’s air-fuel mixture.

Reduced fuel economy

Another symptom that may come with a P0106 code is reduced fuel efficiency. You may notice that you are refilling your gas tank more often than normal for the same distance/performance.

Engine performance problems

This engine trouble code is often accompanied by poor acceleration and an overall lack of engine power. You may experience hard engine starts and rough idling because the engine computer does not have all the information it needs to ensure fuel delivery to match the existing driving conditions.

 How to Diagnose the P0106 Code

Because code P0106 has so many potential causes, diagnosis can be difficult. Here are a couple of videos that will help you get an idea of the troubleshooting process:

How to Fix the P0106 Code

If you don’t have extensive automotive know-how, you may find it difficult to fix the code P0106 on your own. There are a variety of possible causes, as outlined above, which means there are different avenues of repair.

To determine the right solution, you’ll have to determine the issue’s exact underlying cause. You’ll also need to ensure that the troubleshooting methods you employ are appropriate to your vehicle’s make and model. Otherwise, you may amplify the problem.

Investing in repair manuals, such as those from Chilton, helps, but an ALLDATA subscription is even better. ALLDATA has no shortage of single-vehicle subscriptions that offer comprehensive troubleshooting guides for DIYers.

Getting New MAP and BARO Sensors

Figuring out the culprit behind the P0106 code is only half the battle. Now, it’s time to address the issue head-on, so you can drive without worrying about engine performance issues, poor fuel economy, or excessive emission levels. One way to solve this code is by replacing the MAP sensor or BARO sensor, both of which you can easily get at CarParts.com.

CarParts.com offers a wide selection of MAP and BARO sensors from different aftermarket brands. If you’re on a budget, you’ll be pleased to know that we offer different parts at different price points, so you’re sure to find one that best fits your budget. We want our customers to feel at ease when buying from us, so we offer a 60-day returns policy. That way, you can enjoy a worry-free shopping experience when getting a new MAP or BARO sensor.

Don’t wait until your faulty MAP or BARO sensor causes other engine issues before replacing it. Check out our selection of high-quality manifold absolute pressure sensors and barometric pressure sensors, and order one for your ride today!

Products Mentioned in this Guide

Barometric Pressure Sensor MAP Sensor Mass Air Flow Sensor