OBD-II Code P0106 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

P0106 means your manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor is giving readings outside the expected range. The MAP sensor measures the pressure inside your intake manifold. Your car's computer uses this reading to determine engine load and adjust fuel delivery. When the readings are wrong, your engine runs poorly because the fuel mix is off. You may experience surging, rough idle, hesitation, or black smoke from the exhaust.

Affected Models

All vehicles 1996+
Common in Dodge Ram
Common in Jeep Wrangler
Common in Honda Civic
Common in Chrysler 300

Common Causes

Cracked or disconnected vacuum hose going to the MAP sensor
Dirty or carbon-fouled MAP sensor unable to read pressure accurately
Vacuum leak in the intake manifold or throttle body gasket
Failed MAP sensor giving incorrect voltage to the engine computer
Clogged EGR valve affecting intake manifold pressure readings

How to Fix It

Find the MAP sensor on your engine. It's usually a small sensor mounted on or near the intake manifold with a vacuum hose and electrical connector attached to it.

On some vehicles the MAP sensor is built into the intake manifold with no separate vacuum hose.
Inspect the vacuum hose connected to the MAP sensor. Look for cracks, splits, or a loose connection. Replace the hose if it's damaged — this is the most common fix for P0106.

Vacuum hoses cost just a few dollars and are easy to replace by hand.
Clean the MAP sensor by removing it and spraying the sensing element with electronic cleaner or MAF sensor cleaner. Let it dry completely before reinstalling.

Carbon buildup on the sensor element can cause inaccurate readings without actually breaking the sensor.
Check for other vacuum leaks around the intake manifold. Listen for hissing sounds while the engine is idling. A large vacuum leak will throw off the MAP sensor readings.

The brake booster hose and PCV valve hose are common leak points to check.
Replace the MAP sensor if cleaning and hose inspection didn't fix the code. These sensors are inexpensive and usually held in by one or two screws.

MAP sensors typically cost $20-$60 at auto parts stores. Installation takes about 10 minutes.

When to Call a Professional

If you've checked vacuum hoses and replaced the MAP sensor but the code persists, see a mechanic. Intake manifold leaks and EGR system problems need professional diagnosis. A technician can use a vacuum gauge and scan tool to pinpoint the issue. Expect to pay $80-$150 for diagnosis. Repairs range from $20 for a vacuum hose to $500+ for an intake manifold gasket.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a MAP sensor and a MAF sensor?

They both measure air entering the engine, but in different ways. A MAF sensor directly measures air flow volume. A MAP sensor measures vacuum pressure inside the intake manifold. Some cars have one or the other. Some have both. They serve the same basic purpose — helping the computer calculate fuel delivery.

Can I drive with a P0106 code?

Yes, but your engine won't run well. You may experience rough idling, hesitation, or stalling. Fuel economy will suffer noticeably. The car is generally safe to drive short distances. Get it fixed within a week to avoid potential catalytic converter damage.

Why does my car surge with a P0106 code?

Surging happens because the engine computer is getting wrong pressure readings. It keeps adjusting the fuel mixture based on bad data. The result is the engine speeding up and slowing down repeatedly. It's like trying to drive with someone else randomly pressing the gas pedal. Fixing the MAP sensor or vacuum leak will stop the surging.