Home / DTC / P1241 — Manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor 2 - signal too low at full load for low engine speed

P1241 — Manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor 2 - signal too low at full load for low engine speed

Detailed page for trouble code P1241.

32,971codes
59brands
10,510generic
22,461specific
Reset
Code

P1241

MINI P — Powertrain

Manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor 2 - signal too low at full load for low engine speed

Brand: MINI
Views: UK: 4 EN: 13 RU: 9
AI status
Completed
ready
Completed 100%
Page language: EN

Causes

  • Faulty MAP sensor (sensor 2)
  • Open/short or poor connection in MAP sensor wiring or connector
  • Bad sensor ground or reference voltage (5 V) missing/low
  • Intake/boost leak or clogged intake restricting pressure
  • Turbocharger/boost control failure (wastegate stuck open, boost control valve faulty)
  • ECU software or internal fault

Symptoms

  • MIL/Check Engine Lamp illuminated
  • Reduced engine power or limp-in mode under load
  • Poor acceleration, especially at low RPM under full throttle
  • Possible hesitation or surging when trying to build boost
  • Lower than expected boost pressure on boost gauge or scan tool

What to check

  • Read stored DTCs and freeze-frame data with a dealer-level or good OBD-II scan tool
  • Inspect MAP sensor 2 connector and wiring for damage, corrosion, or loose pins
  • Check for related codes (boost, MAF, intake leak, turbo control) that might point to cause
  • Compare live MAP sensor voltage/pressure to expected behavior during key on, idle and full-throttle low-RPM
  • Check sensor reference (5 V) and ground at the connector with ignition on
  • Perform a visual inspection of intake hoses, intercooler and clamps for leaks or damage

Signal parameters

  • Typical MAP sensor output changes with pressure — voltage should rise as manifold pressure increases (exact range depends on sensor)
  • Common MAP voltage range: ~0.5 V at high vacuum to ~4.5 V at high boost (manufacturer-specific)
  • At atmospheric pressure (~101 kPa) the sensor output corresponds to ambient — compare to barometric reading in scan tool
  • Under full-throttle at low RPM the MAP value/voltage should be significantly higher than at idle; a low signal here is abnormal

Diagnostic algorithm

  1. Retrieve code(s) and freeze-frame data. Note engine speed, throttle position, MAP voltage/pressure when fault set.
  2. Visually inspect MAP sensor 2 and related wiring for physical damage, corrosion, or poor connections. Repair as needed.
  3. With key ON (engine off) backprobe the MAP connector: verify stable 5 V reference, good ground, and signal voltage. Replace sensor if reference or ground missing.
  4. Start engine and monitor live MAP signal while performing controlled tests: idle, partial throttle, and full-throttle at low RPM (with safety). Signal should increase with load. If signal remains low, suspect sensor/wiring.
  5. Use a handheld vacuum/pressure pump (or safely apply pressure) to the MAP sensor while monitoring voltage. Confirm sensor responds across expected range. If it does not, replace the sensor.
  6. If sensor bench-tests OK, perform continuity and resistance checks on signal, reference and ground wires back to the ECU; look for shorts to ground or +12 V and intermittent opens.
  7. Inspect intake and boost system for leaks (spray soapy water if appropriate, or use smoke test), and verify turbo and boost control operation (wastegate actuator, boost control valve).
  8. Repair wiring, connectors, intake leaks, or boost control faults as found. Clear codes and perform a road test under the same conditions to confirm the repair.
  9. If wiring and components test good but the fault remains, consult manufacturer technical service info for ECU-related issues or software updates before replacing the ECU.

Likely causes

  • Broken or corroded connector pins at MAP sensor 2
  • Short to ground on the MAP signal wire at low RPM/high load conditions
  • MAP sensor 2 internal failure (drift or dead at higher absolute pressures)
  • Leak in intercooler hose or flange causing inability to build boost at low RPM
  • Wastegate actuator or turbo boost control valve stuck open
  • Failed sensor reference (5 V) due to blown fuse or faulty ECU driver

Fault status

⚠️ Status
MAP Sensor 2 signal below expected level during full load at low engine speed — possible sensor, wiring, intake leak, or boost control fault.
🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium
⏱️ Diagnostic time: 1.5-3.0 hours
Your experience will help others
+100 karma for a short comment :)
Send to email