Your car is spending more? NTK explains why it may be the fault of the MAP sensor

difficulty in starting, Injection light on and irregular operation are some indications that this sensor may be compromised

São Paulo, maio de 2025 - MAP sensors are critical to the operation of the engine. The component acts by measuring the absolute pressure inside the intake manifold and, in some cases, also the air temperature, essential information for the injection center to correctly calculate the amount of air entering the engine and, consequently, the mass of fuel that will be injected.

When the MAP sensor fails, The calculation of the mass of air entering the engine can be compromised, resulting in an inadequate air-fuel mixture - Be her poor (Causing Crashes, overheating and even engine damage), or rich (increasing consumption and emissions). The NKT, brand of Niterra, Japanese multinational also responsible for NGK and a global reference in components for ignition systems, highlights the main signs that this sensor needs to be checked, helping drivers identify the right time to look for a mechanic.

1. Increased fuel consumption: when the MAP sensor gives an incorrect reading, The calculation of the air-fuel mixture can be compromised, leading to excessive fuel injection. This results in higher consumption and, In the long term, higher cost to the driver.
2. Higher emission of pollutants: A faulty sensor can cause rich mixing (excess fuel) or poor (Lack of fuel), both harmful to the environment. This raises emissions levels and can compromise the operation of the catalytic converter.
3. difficulty in starting: MAP sensor failures can cause difficulties when starting, especially with the cold engine. This happens because the injection center cannot correctly adjust the amount of fuel needed to start.
4. Irregular engine operation: in more serious situations, The engine may be unstable, Acceleration failures and loss of power. This directly compromises drivability and can put driver safety at risk.
5. Injection light on dashboard: Most modern injection systems have electronic diagnostics. When the MAP sensor has inconsistent readings, The control unit can activate the warning light on the dashboard. This is an important alert for the driver to look for a trusted mechanic as soon as possible.

Accurate diagnosis is essential

Despite the symptoms, Similar failures can also be caused by other sensors in the system, as the rotation sensor, The TPS (Butterfly Position), the lambda sensor or even the engine temperature sensor. That is why, It is essential to take the vehicle to a specialized workshop, where specific tests can confirm the diagnosis.

"If your car shows any of the signs mentioned, Don't ignore. MAP sensor failures not only increase consumption and emissions, how they can compromise safety and cause engine damage. At the slightest sign of abnormality, Look for a specialized workshop", advises Hiromori Mori, Niterra Technical Assistance Consultant

When the part needs to be replaced, NTK offers high-quality MAP sensors for the aftermarket. Changing the sensors is easy, But it is essential to check for false air intakes, which can compromise the correct sensor reading. The brand indicates using the sensor recommended by the manufacturer, to avoid application errors or system damage. In addition to MAP sensors, NTK offers a wide range of sensors for the correct maintenance of vehicles, in addition to having a technical service, through your Customer Service, to assist the mechanic in the correct diagnosis of the vehicle.