Fuel Injection
MAP Sensor
A MAP sensor tells the engine computer how much vacuum or pressure is in the intake manifold, so it can set fuel and spark timing. We list 30 MAP sensors from $17 to $239 from AC Delco, Standard Motor Products and Delphi, covering vehicles built from 1987 to 2018.
Shop map sensor by vehicle
What a MAP sensor does
MAP stands for manifold absolute pressure. The sensor reads the load on the engine by measuring pressure inside the intake manifold. At idle the manifold holds high vacuum, and at wide open throttle the pressure climbs close to outside air pressure. The engine computer uses that reading to work out how much air is coming in, then adjusts injector pulse width and ignition timing. Some engines also use a separate barometric pressure sensor, and a few of those are listed here as well.
Signs of a bad MAP sensor
Common symptoms include a check engine light with a MAP sensor or manifold pressure code, rough or unstable idle, hesitation when you press the throttle, poor fuel economy and a rich smell from the exhaust. Hard starting can also show up.
Before you replace the sensor, check the vacuum hose that feeds it if your engine has one. A cracked or loose hose gives the same symptoms as a failed sensor, and it costs far less to fix. Also look for a corroded or loose electrical connector.
Choosing the right sensor
MAP sensors vary by engine, mounting style and connector shape. Some bolt directly into the intake manifold with a seal or gasket, while others mount to the firewall or inner fender and connect with a vacuum hose. Package contents differ too: some include a new gasket and instruction sheet, others ship as the sensor alone.
Compare the part number on your old sensor with the listing, then check the fitment table for your year, engine and trim. Chevrolet and Camaro applications make up most of this group, with options for Honda Accord, Mazda, Volkswagen and Dodge as well.
MAP Sensor questions
Can I drive with a bad MAP sensor?
You can usually drive a short distance, but the engine may run rich or lean, idle poorly and lose power. Running rich for a long time can foul spark plugs and harm the catalytic converter, so replace the sensor soon after diagnosis.
Is a MAP sensor the same as a MAF sensor?
No. A MAF sensor measures the mass of air flowing into the engine, while a MAP sensor measures pressure inside the intake manifold. Some engines use one, some use the other, and some use both. Buy the sensor type your engine was built with.
Do I need to reset anything after replacing a MAP sensor?
Clear any stored codes with a scan tool after the repair. Many vehicles relearn fuel trims on their own over a few drive cycles. If the check engine light returns, recheck the vacuum hose and connector before assuming the new sensor is faulty.