P0106 indicates that the PCM has detected the Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor signal is outside the expected range or not performing as intended. The MAP sensor measures intake manifold pressure to help the PCM calculate air‑fuel mixture and ignition timing. When the sensor’s voltage or frequency is implausible, the code is set.
The MAP sensor itself may be internally shorted, open, or out of calibration, causing the PCM to see a signal that is out of the expected range.
Damaged, corroded, or loose wires or connector pins between the MAP sensor and the PCM can produce intermittent or incorrect voltage readings.
Unmetered air entering the intake changes manifold pressure, leading the MAP sensor to report values that fall outside normal limits.
A dirty or sticking throttle plate, or a blockage in the intake tract, can alter manifold pressure and trigger the sensor’s range/performance fault.
On vehicles where BARO is a distinct sensor, its failure can be interpreted by the PCM as a MAP circuit performance problem.
Although uncommon, a malfunction in the PCM’s MAP sensor input circuit can set P0106; this should be considered only after all other causes have been ruled out.
The definition is universal; the diagnostics are engine-specific. Open your vehicle for the codes documented for it:
No. The PCM is rarely at fault for this code; most P0106 cases are due to a faulty MAP sensor, wiring issues, or vacuum leaks. PCM replacement should only be considered after those components have been tested and found good.
A severely restricted air filter can affect intake pressure, but it usually triggers other codes (e.g., P0101). It is worth checking the filter as part of a general intake inspection, but it is not a typical direct cause of P0106.
Clearing the code without addressing the underlying issue will often cause the code to return once the PCM detects the abnormal MAP sensor signal again. Proper diagnosis is recommended.