What it means
Barometric sensor C reads in range but plausibility check fails — slow response or stuck reading. Wiring faults of this kind typically come from chafing, water ingress at connector seals, or pin push-back — a wiggle test on the harness while the code is active often confirms the location.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
Barometric pressure sensor C provides a secondary atmospheric pressure reading for engine control. This range/performance code sets when its signal remains electrically plausible but disagrees with expected pressure or changes too slowly, suggesting drift, a sticking sensor, or a connection that intermittently damps the signal.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Sensor drift
- Sensor element aged beyond calibration window
- Sensor mounting loose - signal damping
Symptoms
- Check-engine light may illuminate
- Possible reduced power or hesitation
- Usually no obvious symptoms if the reading remains close to normal
How to diagnose it
- Review freeze-frame and live data for sensor C and compare its reading with other pressure readings and local atmospheric conditions.
- Inspect sensor C's mounting and connector for looseness, water intrusion, pushed-back pins, or corrosion that could make the signal slow or unstable.
- Move the sensor C harness gently while watching live data to check for signal changes that point to an intermittent connection.
- Check the signal, supply, and ground circuits using the wiring diagram and manufacturer's specifications.
- If the circuit and mounting are sound, assess sensor C response through changing operating conditions and replace it if the reading remains sluggish or offset.
Common fixes
- Secure a loose sensor C mounting or connector.
- Repair a poor terminal, water-damaged seal, or intermittent harness connection.
- Repair a signal, supply, or ground wiring fault found in circuit checks.
- Replace sensor C if its pressure reading remains slow or out of calibration with sound wiring.
Can I keep driving?
With no noticeable symptoms and a steady warning light, normal short-distance driving is usually reasonable, but arrange diagnosis if hesitation or reduced power develops. The inaccurate pressure estimate can affect engine response, particularly as operating conditions change.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.