P0106 Code Symptoms, Causes and Fix

Seeing the P0106 code when you look into that check engine light? It’s possible that your car’s MAP sensor breaks if it gives you this code.

There are lots of possible reasons for this. We will talk about them all, show you how to fix it step by step, and let you know how much the changes will cost.

What Does P0106 Code Mean?

The P0106 mistake shows up on the power control module (PCM), which decides how well the car runs.

The MAP is one of the most important devices that the PCM uses to get information. In a car, the MAP sensor checks both the engine load and the air-to-fuel ratio. The engine will either use too much fuel or not work well enough if this air-to-fuel ratio is off.

A good MAP sensor should show a reading of 1 to 4.5 volts for the manifold pressure. If this number is off, then the engine might not fire right.

The manifold pressure changes automatically based on where the throttle is pushes. But the P0106 code is set off when it changes a lot. The MAP sensor also links to the P0105, P0107, P0108, and P0109 trouble codes.

Signs of Code P0106

Code P0106 can show up in a number of ways. The most telling signs, though, are a car that uses more gas than normal and an engine that stutters or runs rough.

These are some other possible symptoms:

• The check engine light is on. 
• The engine misfires or backfires.
• Too much air in the fuel
• Engine stalling as it speeds up
• Too much smoke coming from the exhaust
• Idle rough

Causes of the Error P0106 Code

A car can throw code P0106 for a lot of different reasons, in addition to the different signs. If something is wrong, it could be the lines or the MAP sensor is breaks. 

• Most often, this means that the intake hose is cracks or the clamps on it breaks.
• A broken MAP sensor
• The MAP sensor’s wire is breaks.
• MAP sensor has water or dirt in it.
• The MAP sensor line is open or short.
• Faulty PCM (not very common)
• Leaks in the system that brings in air

What Does Error P0106 Code Mean?

It is important to remember that Code P0106 is a very bad mistake that should not be ignored. When there are issues with the MAP reader,

• Make the throttle not work right
• Cause fires to go off
• Do harm to your engine

The car shouldn’t be driven until the P0106 code is fixed.

How Much Does It Cost to Fix P0106 Code?

The cost of fixing a P0106 trouble code depends on what is wrong that is giving you the code. Here is a list of the different reasons why this might be happening and how much it would cost to fix each one:

Cap or Hose for the Intake

A simple fix like replacing the intake hose or clamp shouldn’t cost too much. Parts will usually cost between $20 and $50, and work will usually cost between $80 and $140 an hour. Certainly it needs an hour at most.

MAP Reader

The part itself for a new MAP (Manifold Absolute Pressure) sensor typically costs between $50 and $150. Labor for this repair costs between $80 and $140 an hour, which is the same rate we talked about before.

It doesn’t take long to change the MAP sensor, so the work cost will probably be near the bottom of that range.

The MAP sensor wiring

For problems with the MAP sensor wires, additionally the cost to fix it or get a new one depends on how bad the damage is. The hourly rate for work stays the same at $80 to $140 because From $20 to $100 or more, the price of the wires itself can change a lot.

PCM

 If you need to repair your PCM (Powertrain Control Module), this will cost a lot more to fix. Depending on the type of car you have, certainly the part itself could cost anywhere from $200 to $1,000 or more.

The cost of labor stays the same, but because this job may require more work and reworking, you can expect a higher labor bill.

Leak in the air intake system

If your air intake system leaks, then the cost to fix it will depend on which part needs to be changed or fixed. It’s not hard to find rubber seals, gaskets, or vacuum lines for less than $5 to $30 each. It will still cost between $80 and $140 an hour to do the work, and how long it takes to fix will depend on how complicated the problem is.

How to Make P0106 Code Right

The P0106 code can have more than one reason, so it’s important to do a full diagnosis before replacing the MAP sensor.

Checking the wiring and hoses around the MAP sensor by looking at them is the easiest thing to do first. After that, do a full evaluation of the MAP sensor. 

What You’ll Need:

• Scan tool for OBD2 
• Voltmeter
•  Pump for Vacuum

What You Need To Do:

1. Look through the freeze frame data and look for any other error codes. Get rid of the check engine light. 
2. Look for leaks or cracks in the air intake hose and intake vent. Check to see if they are tight and that none of the clamps are missing.
3. You can turn on the key, but don’t start the car yet. 
4. You can look at the MAP sensor data with an OBD2 scan tool. The gauge for pressure should go from 4.5 volts to about 1 volt. If it doesn’t, something is wrong with the sensor or the wires. 
5. The pressure pump can be used to test the MAP sensor. Put 20 inches of gas pressure on the engine without starting it. Check to see if the port and hose are clogged with dirt or debris. If they are, clean them or replace them. 
6. Check the wires around the MAP sensor with a digital multimeter. Connect the wire from the voltmeter to the MAP sensor. Connect the wire to the PCM if you don’t see 5 volts. Check for shorts if you can feel voltage coming from the connection but not the line. 

Fixes for p0106 Code

Now that these checks are done, it’s time to fix the P0106 Code problem.

• Check the wiring by hand to make sure it’s not broken and that the host and clamps are tight and in place.
• Next, fix any broken wires. After that, clear the codes and take the car for a test drive to see if the P0106 code comes back.
• Get rid of the MAP sensor and use an electrical parts cleaner to clean it.
• Auto rust cleaner can be used to get rid of any corrosion that is on the engine ground.
• If these steps don’t get rid of the code then you’ll need to get a new MAP sensor.

Before you replace the MAP sensor, it’s important to do all of these checks. That shouldn’t be the first thing you try because if the lines are broken, it might not fix the problem.

Make sure to test drive the car after each step to see if the P0106 code has been removed. Go to a mechanic if you’ve tried all of these things and the code is still there.