4 Signs to look for if you are suspecting a faulty MAP sensor

4 Signs to look for if you're suspecting a faulty MAP sensor

Look for these signs if your Pontiac's MAP sensors are being a real pain. You can put up your Pontiac parts for sale if you’re planning of selling the used parts.

So you own a Pontiac? Pontiac has died decades ago. However, you can still buy Pontiac Parts. Some dealers steal sells aftermarket parts if not OEM. If you need some parts replacements, check them out.

You can put up your Pontiac parts for sale if your plan is to sell. Enough chit-chat about Pontiac parts selling. Let’s talk MAP sensors.

In modern engines, the Engine Control Module or ECM measures the airflow either by a mass airflow aka MAF or manifold absolute pressure aka MAP sensor. Turbocharged engines use both, but the other naturally installed engine mostly uses one. If the MAP sensor is failing or broken, the engine can't function properly. Here’s how to look for signs.

1. Poor fuel economy.

If the ECM is reading too low, it assumes the engine is taking loads as a result pours more fuel. This leads to excessive fuel consumption and poor fuel economy.

2. Lack of Power.

The ECM does the same thing but in reverse. If the ECM reads too high vacuum, it assumes the engine load is low, so it cuts fuel injection and retards spark timing. If the fuel consumption gradually decreases to a very low point, the engine may lack power for acceleration. You’d notice your vehicle moves sluggishly.

3. A lack in the inspection of emissions.

A broken MAP sensor can increase harmful emissions when the fuel injection doesn’t respond to engine load. The higher the fuel rates the higher the hydrocarbon (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO) it generates as emissions. Insufficient fuel may generate higher Nitrogen Oxide (NO2) gas.

4. Hard Starting Are you having a hard time getting started with your vehicle? Chance is your MAP sensor is faulty. In plain words, an excessively rich or lean mix makes the engine hard to start.

Tip: Put pressure on the accelerator with your foot when you start. If the engine starts only then you know what’s going bad in the car parts.

Check the elements before jumping to conclusions If you find all these signs present in your MAP sensor, I hate to break it to you but the sensor is failing.

Get these following things checked.

1. Electrical. You should check the connector and wiring first. Check if the connector is securely connected. The pins should be clean and straight. Corrosion and rust or bent pins can cause a MAP sensor to die. Similarly, the wiring between the ECM and MAP sensor should be kept intact.

2. Hose. Some MAP sensors are connected to the intake manifold with the help of a hose. If the hose gets loosen for any reason, you might get the wrong reading of MAP sensors. Carbon is a culprit here. When deposits of carbon clog the hose, the hose can get blocked.

3. Sensor. Make sure the sensor is connected properly. Now using a voltage meter and vacuum gun measure the MAP output. If the MAP sensor output doesn’t match the chart, get your sensor replaced as soon as possible.

Conclusion So that was it, folks. I hope I have given you all the necessary information you need regarding the topic.

Till then, take care.