P0236
Fix within a few daysThe engine computer detects an issue with the signal from the turbocharger/supercharger boost sensor, indicating it's outside its expected operating range or not performing correctly.
Code P0236 means your boost sensor signal is out of range. Common causes: Faulty boost sensor (60%), wiring issues (20%), boost leaks (10%). Drivability: Yes, but fix within days. Repair cost: $50-$200 DIY, $150-$500 professional.
Can I Drive With P0236?
Yes, for short trips only
Essential trips under 10 miles, avoid highways and heavy acceleration. Get it fixed soon.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing CEL, loud whistling/hissing noises, significant power loss, or engine overheating.
Symptoms of P0236
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Reduced engine power or 'limp mode'
- 3Poor acceleration
- 4Decreased fuel economy
- 5Engine hesitation under acceleration
- 6Engine may run rough
Common Causes of P0236
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The sensor itself is faulty, sending incorrect or erratic voltage signals to the engine computer.
60% of P0236 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring and connectors can disrupt the sensor's signal to the engine computer.
20% of P0236 cases are fixed by repairing wiring or connector
A leak in the turbocharger's boost system can cause the sensor to read pressure values outside the expected range for engine operation.
10% of P0236 cases are fixed by repairing a boost leak
A malfunctioning wastegate or its actuator can prevent the turbo from regulating boost correctly, leading to sensor readings outside the expected performance range.
5% of P0236 cases are fixed by repairing the turbocharger wastegate
A rare internal fault within the engine computer can incorrectly interpret the boost sensor's signal.
5% of P0236 cases are fixed by replacing the ECM/PCM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the boost pressure sensor's electrical connector for any signs of damage, corrosion, or if it's loose.
- Carefully check all visible turbocharger/supercharger hoses, intercooler pipes, and clamps for cracks, tears, or loose connections that could indicate a boost leak.
How to Diagnose P0236
- 1Visually inspect the boost pressure sensor and its electrical connector for damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- 2Check all turbocharger/supercharger intake and intercooler hoses for cracks, loose clamps, or leaks.
- 3Using a scan tool, monitor the boost pressure sensor's live data (MAP sensor reading) with the engine off (should be close to atmospheric pressure) and during acceleration.
- 4Test the boost pressure sensor's voltage signal and ground circuit using a multimeter.
- 5Perform a boost leak test on the entire intake system to identify any leaks.
- 6If the sensor readings are erratic or consistently out of range, replace the boost pressure sensor.
- 7If all other components check out, diagnose the turbocharger wastegate or actuator for proper operation.
P0236 on Popular Vehicles
Ford F-150
2011-2024EcoBoost engines are prone to P0236 due to boost pressure sensor failure or boost leaks, especially around the intercooler or charge air pipes. Check for oil accumulation in the intercooler.
70% fixed by replacing boost sensor or repairing boost leak
Honda Civic
2016-2024On 1.5L turbocharged Civic models, P0236 can stem from a faulty boost pressure sensor or issues with the turbocharger's wastegate actuator. Inspect vacuum lines to the wastegate.
65% fixed by replacing boost sensor or addressing wastegate issue
Chevrolet Silverado
2019-2024For turbocharged Silverado models, P0236 often points to a failing boost pressure sensor or a leak in the charge air system. Also check for issues with the electronic wastegate actuator.
68% fixed by replacing boost sensor or repairing boost leak
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0236 mean?
P0236 indicates that your vehicle's engine computer has detected an issue with the signal from the turbocharger or supercharger boost pressure sensor, meaning the signal is outside its expected operating range or performing erratically.
Can I drive with P0236?
Yes, you can drive with P0236, but you should fix it within a few days. Expect reduced engine power and potentially worse fuel economy. Prolonged driving with this code can lead to further issues.
Will P0236 clear itself?
No, P0236 will not clear itself. The engine computer will store this code until the underlying issue is resolved and the system passes its self-test, or until it's manually cleared with a scan tool.
How do I fix P0236 myself?
Start by visually inspecting the boost sensor wiring and all turbo hoses for damage or leaks. If no issues are found, replace the boost pressure sensor. If the problem persists, you may need to perform a boost leak test or diagnose the turbocharger's wastegate.
How much does it cost to fix P0236?
A DIY fix for P0236, typically involving a new boost pressure sensor, costs $50-$200. Professional repair at a shop will cost $150-$500, including parts and labor.
P0236 keeps coming back - why?
If P0236 keeps returning, it means the initial repair didn't address the root cause. This often happens if a boost leak was missed, there's a subtle wiring issue, or the turbocharger's wastegate or actuator is faulty, not just the sensor itself.
Will P0236 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0236 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on is an automatic failure in most jurisdictions, and the underlying issue can affect exhaust emissions.
What's the difference between P0236 and P0237?
P0236 indicates a general range or performance issue with the boost sensor's signal, meaning it's erratic or outside expected parameters. P0237 specifically means the boost sensor circuit has a 'low input' signal, indicating the voltage is consistently too low.
P0236 on Ford F-150 EcoBoost
On Ford F-150 EcoBoost engines, P0236 is commonly caused by a faulty boost pressure sensor (MAP sensor) or a boost leak in the intercooler or associated piping. Inspect the intercooler for cracks or oil residue, and check all charge air pipes.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check the boost pressure sensor's live data with a scan tool, both at idle and under load?
Good answer: Yes, the sensor was reading [X psi] at idle and [Y psi] under boost, which was erratic/out of range compared to specifications.
Have you performed a boost leak test on the entire intake system?
Good answer: Yes, we pressurized the system and found a leak at [specific hose/intercooler connection] which we repaired.
Did you inspect the wiring and connector to the boost pressure sensor for any damage or corrosion?
Good answer: Yes, we checked the harness and connector for continuity and voltage, and everything looked good/we found a corroded pin and repaired it.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$50-$200
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$150-$500
Save $100-$300 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-3 hours
Intermediate. While replacing the sensor can be straightforward, accurately diagnosing the root cause often requires a scan tool for live data and potentially a boost leak tester.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0236 can lead to continued reduced engine power and fuel economy. If the boost pressure is not being regulated correctly, it can cause premature wear or damage to the turbocharger itself, which is a significantly more expensive repair ($1,000-$3,000).
While You're In There...
A clogged air filter can restrict airflow, potentially affecting boost pressure readings, and it's a simple maintenance item often checked during boost system diagnosis.
If the boost pressure sensor is located on the intake manifold and requires removal for access, replacing the gaskets prevents future vacuum/boost leaks and repeat labor.
Many turbo systems use vacuum lines for wastegate control; inspecting and replacing brittle lines prevents future boost control issues.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II Scan Tool (with live data capability)
- Multimeter
- Basic Hand Tools (sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers)
- Boost Leak Tester (optional, but highly recommended for accurate diagnosis)
- Flashlight
P0236 is a common code on turbocharged or supercharged vehicles. Most repairs involve replacing an affordable sensor or fixing a simple leak, and your engine will regain its full power afterward.
- Family-owned since 1957
- 990,000+ happy customers
- Fast nationwide shipping
- Easy returns
Your Next Steps
Step 1: Perform a thorough visual inspection of the boost pressure sensor, its wiring harness, and all turbocharger/intercooler hoses for any obvious damage or leaks.
Step 2: If no visual issues are found, use an OBD-II scan tool to monitor the boost pressure sensor's live data. Compare the reading with the engine off to atmospheric pressure, and observe its behavior during acceleration. If readings are erratic or incorrect, replace the boost pressure sensor.
Step 3: If the sensor appears to be reading correctly but the code persists, perform a boost leak test to rule out any hidden leaks in the charge air system. If a leak is found, repair it. If no leaks are present, further diagnosis of the turbocharger's wastegate or actuator may be necessary.