P0106 VW/Audi Fault Code: Diagnosis & Repair

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P0106 VW/Audi Fault Code: MAP or BARO Pressure Circuit Out of Range 

When you receive a P0106 code on your Volkswagen or Audi, it will read out “MAP or Baro Pressure Circuit Out of Range” or “Manifold / Barometric Pressure Sensor (G71) / (F96): Implausible Signal”. This engine code can occur on any Volkswagen or Audi vehicle, but it is the most common on the VW/Audi 2.5L engine. In fact, Volkswagen issued a technical service bulletin 24-18-02 because the P0106 VW/Audi code was very common on the 2.5L. There are a few causes of this engine code poping ranking from most common to least common: faulty or dirty MAP sensor, dirty throttle body, air intake system leaks, or PCV valve failure. The engine will run very poorly until this code is alleviated.

What is a MAP Sensor and Why is it important?

Since there’s a high likelihood of the MAP sensor causing a P0106 VW/Audi code, we want to briefly address the function. A Manifold Absolute Pressure, or MAP, sensor is mounted on the intake manifold and it measures the pressure and vacuum inside of the intake manifold. It’s a very important component in the air intake system because it provides air density calculations to the engine’s ECU for determining the air mass flow rate. Also in the description of the P0106 code is a barometric pressure sensor. A barometric sensor is often on the MAP sensor and it reads the barometric pressure. The PCM uses this information to adjust fuel and engine timing.

Can you still drive with a P0106 VW/Audi Fault Code?

Yes, you can, but we wouldn’t recommend it. Some others rate this fault code as SEVERE, however, we would rate it as MODERATELY SEVERE. If ignored for longer than a week or two, then yes it could become severe. However, when it pops up, we suggest addressing it as soon as possible. We must state, when you get this code, do not automatically buy a new MAP sensor thinking this would solve the issue. IT COULD, but make sure to check other causes first.

P0106 VW/Audi Symptoms

• Check Engine Light (CEL) or Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminating
• Poor engine performance
• Excessive smoke being emitted from the exhaust
• Decreased fuel efficiency
• Sporadic acceleration
• Rough idle
• Engine surges
• Rich AFR conditions

Causes of P0106 Engine Code for Volkswagen’s or Audi’s

• Dirt or water on the MAP sensor
• Open/short in MAP sensor wiring
• Faulty MAP sensor
• Throttle body carbon buildup
• Leaks in the air intake system
• Faulty PCV valve

How to Repair a Volkswagen or Audi with a P0106 Engine Code

First, if you have an OBD-II scanner and have the ability to clear the code, we would suggest clearing it and performing a road test to confirm that the code comes back. Then we would address the causes from top to bottom and hopefully, it alleviates the issue. Before getting into the guides below, we want to preface that all of the replacement parts and DIYs are for a Volkswagen/Audi 2.5L engine because it is the most popular VW/Audi engine that this code pops up on.

Clean the MAP Sensor/Check MAP Sensor Wiring

A common thing to happen is for the MAP sensor to get dirty or for the wiring associated with the MAP sensor to have a short circuit. The first thing to test is disconnecting the MAP sensor, located on the intake manifold, and seeing if it is dirty. If it is, use a soft rag or paper towel to cleanse the outside of the sensor with an electric parts cleaner. Then proceed to spray the electric parts cleaner into the sensor and shake out any excess liquid. If the intake manifold port is also dirty, lightly spray it with the cleaner and cleanse gently. Once both components are dry, plug the sensor back in, clear the code, and perform a road test to see if the code pops back up.

Replace the MAP Sensor

Since we have already gone over the purpose of the MAP sensor above we will touch base on replacement cost. The part is rather cheap depending on if you go with the OE or with any other company like Bosch. Replacing it is a simple service, but if you’re wanting to take it to a shop, they would likely charge around $160.

Buy Here: Volkswagen/Audi 2.5L MAP Sensor
DIY Difficulty: Easy

Clean or Replace the Throttle Body or Gasket

If you happen to have a 2.5L engine, there is a high likelihood that the throttle body is covered with carbon buildup and is causing the code to pop. The throttle body is located between the intake manifold and the air intake and its purpose is to regulate airflow into the engine. Remove the air intake duct from the air filter and manually open the throttle body plate to see if there is carbon buildup. If there is buildup present, you will have to remove the throttle body and use the spray linked below to gently clean it. DO NOT spray any cleaner on the throttle plate shaft. Since you are removing the throttle body, the gasket will have to be replaced.

Buy Here: Volkswagen/Audi 2.5L Throttle Body
Purchase Here: VW/Audi 2.5L Throttle Body Gasket
Buy Here: Volkswagen/Audi 2.5L Throttle Body Cleaner
DIY Difficulty: Intermediate

Check for Air Intake System Leaks or Clean the Air Intake Filter

Another common cause is leaks in the air intake system or a dirty air intake filter. We have provided an air intake cleaner below if you feel that it is dirty and clogging airflow.

Buy Here: Volkswagen/Audi 2.5L Air Intake Cleaner
DIY Difficulty: Easy

Replace the PCV Valve

Lastly, if the throttle body has carbon build-up, there’s a high likelihood that the PCV, Positive Crankcase Ventilation, valve is faulty. A PCV valve captures fuel vapors and recirculates them into the intake system to be burned off before going into the environment.

Buy Here: Volkswagen/Audi 2.5L PCV Valve
DIY Difficulty: Easy

P0106 Volkswagen/Audi Conclusion

We hope the information above has assisted you in addressing the P0106 VW/Audi fault code. When the code pops up, we advise not driving, but if you HAVE to drive, you can for a week or two. If ignored, it could lead to the engine running poorly for an extended period of time, which will cause major engine damage. Again, if you happen to have a 2.5L VW engine, the main cause is a dirty throttle body and a faulty PCV valve. If this guide has assisted in solving the engine code, please let us know what the issue was to assist future readers in the comments below. Lastly, if you need assistance in finding guides or replacement parts for a different engine, let us know in the comments below and we will assist in any way we can.