Chevrolet Camaro MAP Sensor: A Guide for the 2009-2019 Models
Understanding the signs of a failing MAP sensor in your 5th or 6th Gen Camaro and how to replace it.
- A bad MAP sensor on a Camaro typically causes poor fuel economy, rough idle, hesitation, and a check engine light with codes P0105-P0109.
- Replacement is a very easy DIY job that takes less than 15 minutes and requires only basic tools, saving you on labor costs.
- For a stock Camaro, a standard aftermarket 'Replacement' brand sensor is a cost-effective solution that should resolve the issue.
- No recalls have been issued by GM or the NHTSA for MAP sensor failures on 2009-2019 Camaros.
Is Your Camaro's MAP Sensor Failing?
A faulty Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor can cause noticeable engine problems. Because the sensor's data directly impacts the air-fuel mixture, incorrect readings from a bad sensor can make your Camaro run poorly. Symptoms are often consistent and can range from annoying to serious. If your check engine light is on, getting the code read is the first step. Codes like P0105, P0106, P0107, or P0108 often point directly to a MAP sensor issue.
🎬 Watch: 8 common symptoms of a failing MAP sensor explained.Common Symptoms of a Bad MAP Sensor:
- Poor Fuel Economy: If the sensor sends incorrect data, the engine may use more fuel than necessary.
- Rough Idle: The engine may vibrate or struggle to maintain a steady RPM at a stop.
- Hesitation or Sluggish Acceleration: You might notice a delay or lack of power when you press the gas pedal.
- Black Smoke from Exhaust: This is a sign of a rich fuel mixture, where too much gasoline is being burned, often caused by a bad MAP sensor reading.
- Engine Stalling: In more severe cases, the engine may stall unexpectedly, especially after starting.
A Note on Modified Camaros
If you have added a supercharger or turbocharger to your Camaro, the stock 1-bar MAP sensor may not be adequate to read the positive pressure (boost). Owners of modified vehicles often need to upgrade to a 2-bar or 3-bar MAP sensor and get a new engine tune to ensure the system reads boost pressure correctly.
🎬 See how to measure boost with a 3-bar MAP sensor.Choosing the Right Aftermarket MAP Sensor
When replacing your MAP sensor, you have a choice between original equipment (OEM) and aftermarket parts. For General Motors vehicles like the Camaro, the OEM brand is typically ACDelco.
- OEM (ACDelco): These sensors are built to the exact specifications for your Camaro's engine. They offer the highest quality, precision, and guaranteed compatibility, but come at a higher price.
- Aftermarket (Replacement): Basic aftermarket brands offer a significant cost saving. For a simple and generally reliable sensor like the MAP, a standard replacement part is often a perfectly good choice for a daily driven, non-modified vehicle. While some budget electronic parts can be risky, MAP sensors are a fairly straightforward component. A quality aftermarket part should perform correctly, but may not have the same long-term durability as an OEM sensor.
Cost to Replace a Camaro MAP Sensor
| Part Type | Part Cost | Labor Cost | Total Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Aftermarket (Replacement) | $39.80 | $60 - $90 | $99.80 - $129.80 |
| New OEM (ACDelco) | $45 - $75 | $105 - $165 |
Cost estimates are based on national averages and may vary by location and specific vehicle model. The aftermarket price is based on our inventory, while OEM and labor costs are from industry sources.
DIY Installation
Replacing the MAP sensor on a Camaro is a very simple job that most owners can do themselves in under 15 minutes with basic tools, saving on labor costs. The sensor is usually located directly on the intake manifold and held in place by a single screw.
🎬 Watch this quick 5th Gen Camaro MAP sensor replacement guide.- Locate the MAP sensor on the intake manifold.
- Disconnect the electrical connector. There may be a small tab you need to press.
- Unscrew the single bolt holding the sensor in place.
- Gently pull the old sensor out.
- Install the new sensor, tighten the bolt (do not overtighten), and reconnect the electrical plug.
- Disconnecting the battery for 15 minutes can reset the check engine light, or you can clear it with an OBD2 scanner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I just clean my MAP sensor?
Sometimes the port for the sensor can get clogged. You can try cleaning the port, but unlike a Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor, the MAP sensor itself is a sealed electronic unit that generally isn't cleaned. If it's faulty, it needs to be replaced.
Are there any recalls on the Camaro MAP sensor?
No. According to NHTSA data, there are no specific safety recalls for the MAP sensor on the 2009-2019 Chevrolet Camaro. There have been recalls for other unrelated parts on these vehicles.
What's the difference between a MAP and MAF sensor?
Your Camaro has both. The MAP (Manifold Absolute Pressure) sensor measures air pressure in the intake manifold. The MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor measures the volume and density of air entering the engine. Both work together to help the ECU deliver the right amount of fuel.
Will a cheap aftermarket MAP sensor work?
For most stock vehicles, a standard aftermarket MAP sensor will work fine and resolve the fault codes and symptoms. While OEM parts are always the benchmark for quality, the cost savings on a simple sensor like this can be worthwhile. However, for highly-tuned or modified engines, sticking with an OEM or high-performance sensor is recommended.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 12592525 55573248 12650600 12711681
The correct MAP sensor varies by engine (V6, V8 LS3, V8 LSA, etc.) and model year. The stock sensor is a 1-bar type, meaning it primarily reads vacuum and atmospheric pressure. Forced induction applications require an upgraded multi-bar sensor and a corresponding tune.
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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