GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Object Number: 50789  Size: SF
Engine Controls Components
MAP, IAT, TPS and ECT Sensors
OBD II Symbol Description Notice
Powertrain Control Module Connector End Views
Handling ESD Sensitive Parts Notice
Handling ESD Sensitive Parts Notice

Circuit Description

The manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor measures the changes in the intake manifold pressure which result from the engine load (intake manifold vacuum) and the RPM changes then converts these into a voltage output. The powertrain control module (PCM) supplies a 5 volt reference voltage to the MAP sensor. As the manifold pressure changes, the output voltage of the sensor also changes. By monitoring the sensor output voltage, the PCM knows the manifold pressure. A lower pressure (low voltage) output voltage will be about 1.0 to 1.5 volts at idle. While high pressure (high voltage) output voltage will be about 4.5 to 4.8 volts at wide open throttle (WOT). The MAP sensor is also used, under certain conditions, to measure barometric pressure, allowing the PCM to make an adjustment for different altitudes. The PCM uses the MAP sensor in order to control the fuel delivery and the ignition timing.

Test Description

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table:

Important:  Be sure to use the same diagnostic test equipment for all measurements.

  1. Applying 34 kPa (10 in of Hg) vacuum to the MAP sensor should cause the voltage to be 1.5 to 2.1 volts less than the voltage at Step 3. Upon applying vacuum to the sensor, the change in voltage should be instantaneous. A slow voltage change indicates a malfunctioning sensor.

  2. Important: Make sure electrical connector remains securely fastened.

    Move sensor electrical connector by hand (only) while watching scan tool to inspect for intermittent connection. Output changes greater than 0.10 volt indicate a bad connection. If OK, replace sensor.

  3. Check vacuum hose to sensor for leaking or restriction. Be sure that no other vacuum devices are connected to the MAP hose.

Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor Output Check

Step

Action

Values

Yes

No

1

Did you perform the Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check?

--

Go to Step 2

Go to Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check

2

Are any MAP DTCs set?

--

Go to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List/Type

Go to Step 3

3

  1. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
  2. Compare the MAP sensor reading with the reading of a known good vehicle.

Are the voltage readings between the 2 vehicles within the specified value?

± 0.4 V

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 7

4

  1. Disconnect and plug the vacuum source to the MAP sensor.
  2. Connect a hand vacuum pump to the MAP sensor.
  3. With the scan tool, observe the MAP sensor voltage.
  4. Apply the specified vacuum to the sensor and observe the MAP sensor voltage.
  5. Subtract the second voltage reading from the first voltage reading.

Does the difference measure more than the specified value?

34 kPa (10 in of Hg) 1.5 V

Go to Step 6

Go to Step 5

5

  1. Inspect MAP sensor connector for a poor connection.
  2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary. Refer to Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 8

Go to Step 7

6

  1. Inspect MAP sensor vacuum source for leakage or restriction and that the vacuum source supplies ONLY the MAP sensor.
  2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 8

--

7

Replace MAP sensor. Refer to Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

--

Go to Step 8

--

8

Operate vehicle within the conditions under which the original symptom was observed.

Does the system now operate properly?

--

System OK

Go to Step 2