Fault code P0106 is called “Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP)/Barometric Pressure (BARO) Circuit Range/Performance Problem” but in different programs it may be called differently. This fault designation applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II.
Technical description and explained code P0106
OBD-II Diagnostic Code P0106 is defined as a manifold absolute pressure sensor / barometric pressure sensor circuit performance range mismatch. It is set when the PCM detects voltage from the MAP sensor that does not match the current engine load or throttle position. It may also indicate that the MAP sensor signal does not correlate with the throttle position sensor (TPS) signal voltage.
As the engine load changes, the pressure in the intake manifold also changes in response to the changing demand. As a result, the MAP sensor generates voltage signals based on pressure changes. Which the PCM uses to calculate fuel delivery and adapt to ignition timing so the engine runs at maximum efficiency.
To monitor the accuracy of the MAP sensor readings, the PCM uses other sensors, primarily the throttle position sensor (TPS). Thus, if the PCM detects a “mismatch” between the signals from the MAP and TPS sensors. This is recognized as a fault condition and code P0106 will be set.
When the system is working properly, the PCM expects to detect a change in voltage signal from the MAP sensor immediately after a change in throttle position. However, this only happens if the MAP sensor, TPS sensor and related circuits are working properly.
A faulty TPS sensor can also cause code P0106 to be set when its signal voltage does not match the MAP/BARO sensor signal voltage.
Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions
The main signal that an error P0106 has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.
It can also be warning signs such as:
- Check engine control lamp on the control panel will light up (the code will be recorded in the memory as a malfunction).
- The engine stops or starts badly.
- Floating revolutions, as well as attempts to stall at idle.
- Ignition skips under load or at idle.
- Reduced engine power.
- Poor acceleration.
- Increased fuel consumption.
- In some cases there may be no symptoms, except for the stored fault code.
The error P0106 is serious, because when it occurs, it can cause problems with the engine. However, if there are no symptoms and only the Check Engine light is on, the OBD-II system can be restarted and the vehicle will continue to run normally.
Factors that can cause this error code
The error code P0106 can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:
- Worn or damaged vacuum hose on the absolute pressure sensor in the intake manifold.
- Defective MAP, MAF, BARO or TPS sensors.
- Damaged or worn connectors of MAP, MAF, BARO or TPS sensors.
- Damaged wiring.
- Low fuel pressure or damage to internal engine components (e.g. burnt-out valve).
- Clogged catalytic converter.
- Sometimes faulty PCM module is the cause.
How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P0106
Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P0106:
- Connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic connector and read all stored data and error codes.
- Clear the error codes from the computer memory and test-drive the vehicle to find out if the code P0106 appears again.
- If the code appears again, check all cables and corresponding connectors leading to the MAP, MAF, BARO or TPS sensors. Make sure they are not broken or frayed. Repair or replace if necessary.
- Inspect and test these sensors.
- Replace the failed sensors if necessary.
- If faulty PCM is the cause, replace or reprogram it.
Diagnose and repair of problems
Inspect visible damage to sensors, wiring, and connectors. Then start the diagnostic procedure with the scan tool. To determine if error P0106 is the only error, if not, it may be worth investigating other fault codes first.
If no problems with damaged or corroded connectors are found, perform a thorough inspection of all associated wiring. Repair or replace damaged wiring as necessary.
Check for clogged air filter, damage to catalytic converter. Also look for damaged or disconnected air intake, dislodged or broken vacuum lines, and obstructions in the intake line. Replace hoses, air lines, filter element or vacuum lines if necessary.
Check MAP sensor
If the code remains, check the reference voltage at the MAP sensor connector. Also check the ground and continuity, especially in the signal wire between the PCM and the MAP sensor connector. If the resistance is infinite, repair the break in the MAP signal circuit.
If circuit continuity is normal, check the MAP sensor by applying vacuum to it. The voltage from the MAP sensor should gradually decrease from 5 volts to 1 volt or less. And increase back up to about 5 volts as the vacuum is reset. If the signal voltage does not change according to the manufacturer’s specification, replace the MAP sensor.
Often, MAP sensor readings can get stuck at 4.5 volts, regardless of the amount of vacuum applied. This indicates a short between the signal wire and the 5-volt reference wire. If necessary, repair the wiring to remove the short.
If there is no voltage in the signal wire when the MAP sensor connector is disconnected, there is an internal short and the sensor must be replaced.
In some cases the PCM may be faulty or in the process of breaking down. But this is extremely rare. Therefore, before replacing it, it is better to check everything thoroughly again.
On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently
Fault code P0106 can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:
- Audi (A6, Q7)
- Chevrolet (Avalanche, Aveo, Cruze, Lacetti, Silverado, TrailBlazer)
- Chrysler (Town and Country, Voyager)
- Citroen (Berlingo)
- Daewoo (Nexia)
- Dodge
- Fiat (Albea, Doblo, Linea)
- Ford (Explorer, Focus, Kuga, Ranger)
- Hyundai (Elantra, Santa Fe, Solaris, Sonata, i40, ix35, ix40)
- Infiniti (G37)
- Kia (Ceed, Cerato, Rio, Sorento, Sportage)
- Mazda (BT-50, MPV, Protege)
- Mercedes-Benz (Vito, W211, W212, W221)
- Mitsubishi (L200, Pajero)
- Nissan (Almera, Patrol, Qashqai)
- Opel (Antara, Astra, Corsa, Insignia)
- Peugeot (206, 307, Partner)
- Renault (Duster, Logan)
- Saab
- Skoda (Octavia, Rapid)
- Ssangyong
- Subaru
- Toyota
- Volkswagen (Crafter, Golf, Jetta, Passat, Polo, Tiguan, Touareg, Touran)
- Volvo (S60, S80)
- LADA (Largus, Priora, Vesta)
- UAZ (Fermer, Patriot, ZMZ 409)
Fault code P0106 can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P0004, P0101, P0105, P0107, P0108, P0109, P0111, P0122, P0126, P0171, P0174, P0191, P0300, P0400, P0420, P0430, P0452, P0507, P0573, P069E, P1478, P1528, P1598, P1682, P2270, C0035, C0561, C0899, C0900.
