P0236 OBD-II Trouble Code: Turbocharger Boost Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance

P0236 code definition

Turbocharger Boost Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance

What the P0236 code means

P0236 is an OBD-II generic code that is triggered when the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects the intake boost pressure sensor A input circuit range or performance is out of specifications when compared to the manifold pressure sensor (MAP) or the barometric pressure sensor (BARO) at idle and with the key on, engine off, before starting.

What causes the P0236 code?

• The turbo boost pressure sensor does not correlate the same reading with the MAP or BARO sensors at engine idle or when the key is on and the engine is off.

• The turbo boost pressure sensor A is contaminated or clogged with debris or carbon deposits

• The turbo boost pressure sensor A is slow to respond to changing pressure due to deterioration with age

What are the symptoms of the P0236 code?

• The Check Engine Light will be illuminated and the code set

• The engine turbo boost may be turned off by the ECM and the engine will lack power

• The engine may lack some power during acceleration if the boost sensor is failing to register the correct amount of boost pressure

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0236 code?

• Scans codes and documents the freeze frame data in order to verify the problem

• Clears the codes to verify whether the concern comes back

• Checks the operation of the boost pressure sensor compared to the MAP sensor

• Checks the turbo boost sensor for blockage of the sensor port, or boost sensor hose or line

• Checks the turbo boost sensor connector for loose or corroded pins

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0236 code?

Follow these simple guidelines to prevent misdiagnosis:

• Check the boost pressure sensor hose for obstructions or kinks
• Verify the connections to the sensor are secure and not leaking, kinked or cracked

How serious is the P0236 code?

• The boost pressure in the intake can give you a lot of power. If the turbo boost sensor is out of range or having performance problems, then the ECM may disable the turbo boost on some vehicles that only have the one sensor; this could cause the vehicle to have a lack of power on acceleration.

What repairs can fix the P0236 code?

• Replacing the boost sensor if it is not giving the correct input pressure reading to the ECM

• Repairing or replacing hoses and connections to the turbo boost sensor that have kinks or blockage of the lines

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0236 code

Code P0236 is triggered by the intake boost sensor indicating a range or performance problem that the ECM determines is out of known specifications. The most common failure is boost sensor slow response due to performance issues.

Need help with a P0236 code?

YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.