Fuel & air metering · Powertrain · generic (SAE-defined)
P0106: Manifold Absolute Pressure/Barometric Pressure Circuit Range/Performance
P0106 means the manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor reading does not agree with what the engine computer expects based on engine speed, throttle position and barometric pressure.
Standard title per SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6 · Updated 2026-11-07 · By CarWhere Research
How P0106 sets
The powertrain control module (PCM) compares the MAP reading against expected values, such as near-barometric pressure with the key on and engine off, or a calculated value based on throttle angle and rpm while running. When the MAP signal is plausible electrically but does not match those expectations, P0106 sets. Comparison methods and limits vary by manufacturer.
Common causes of P0106
Roughly most likely first; the actual cause depends on the vehicle and needs testing to confirm.
- Cracked, leaking or plugged MAP sensor vacuum hose
- Intake vacuum leak
- Faulty MAP sensor
- Corroded or loose connector
- Faulty barometric pressure sensor on engines that use a separate one
- Mechanical engine issues such as low compression or incorrect valve timing
P0106 symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Rough idle
- Hesitation or lack of power
- Poor fuel economy
- Black smoke or rich smell in some cases
How P0106 is diagnosed
- Scan for codes and freeze frame; note other MAP, MAF or timing codes
- With the key on and engine off, compare MAP to barometric pressure
- Inspect the MAP sensor hose and port for leaks or blockage
- Smoke test the intake for vacuum leaks
- Watch MAP response during idle and snap throttle in live data
- Check engine vacuum and compression if the sensor tests good
Typical fixes for P0106
- Replace the MAP sensor vacuum hose
- Repair intake or vacuum leaks
- Replace the MAP sensor
- Clean or repair the sensor connector
- Address mechanical engine problems
Replace parts only after testing confirms the cause — a code names the circuit or condition that failed a check, not necessarily the faulty part. We don’t publish per-repair prices; for what households actually spend on upkeep, see car repair costs.
Related codes & warning lights
P0106 FAQ
What does code P0106 mean?
P0106 means the manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor reading does not agree with what the engine computer expects based on engine speed, throttle position and barometric pressure. The standard definition is "Manifold Absolute Pressure/Barometric Pressure Circuit Range/Performance."
Can I drive with a P0106 code?
Usually yes for short trips, but fuel delivery may be off, causing hesitation, rough idle or poor mileage. Have it checked within days.
What does a MAP sensor measure?
It measures absolute pressure inside the intake manifold, which tells the PCM how much load the engine is under.
Can a vacuum leak cause P0106?
Yes. A leak raises manifold pressure at idle, which can make the MAP reading disagree with the PCM's expected value.
Keep researching
Engine guides by brand (known issues, specs)
More fuel & air metering codes
Sources
- SAE J2012 — Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (standard code titles)
- ISO 15031-6 — Road vehicles: communication between vehicle and external equipment for emissions-related diagnostics, Part 6: Diagnostic trouble code definitions
- U.S. EPA — Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) programs
- U.S. EPA, 40 CFR 86.1806-17 — Federal onboard diagnostics requirements for light-duty vehicles
- California Air Resources Board — On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) Program
General information written by CarWhere Research, not a diagnosis of your vehicle. Manufacturers can add their own sub-definitions and test conditions; confirm with the factory service information for your year, make and model. Before paying for a repair, check NHTSA for open recalls and your warranty booklet: federal law requires an emissions warranty on major emission-control parts such as the catalytic converter and engine computer.