Manifold Pressure/Vacuum Sensor: Description and Operation

MAP Sensor:

MAP Sensor Output Characteristic:

The Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor measures the changes in the intake manifold pressure which result from engine load and speed changes. The ECM converts this to a voltage output.

The ECM sends a 5.0 volts reference signal to the MAP sensor. As the manifold pressure changes, the electrical resistance of the sensor also changes. By monitoring the sensor output voltage, the ECM knows the manifold pressure. A higher pressure, low vacuum (high voltage) requires more fuel, while a lower pressure, higher vacuum (low voltage) requires less fuel.

A closed throttle on engine coast down would produce a relatively low MAP output, while a wide-open throttle would produce a high output. MAP sensor pressure is the opposite of what would be measured on a vacuum gauge. When manifold pressure is high, vacuum is low.

The MAP sensor is also used to measure barometric pressure under certain conitions, which allows the ECM to automatically adjust for different altitudes.

A failure in the MAP sensor circuit should set a Code 31 or 32.