Q: Would a map sensor make your car not hold idle and die , I have a 2000 Dodge Dakota with a 4.7 v8

asked by on September 23, 2017

I bought this truck and the owner says it needs a map sensor. It starts just fine but after awhile the idle starts going up and down then it bottoms out and dies . Is that a map sensor? I took it out and cleaned it and put it back in and the only thing that changed was there's no more black stuff coming out of the tailpipe. Please help thanks

My car has 266800 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Yes a MAP sensor can cause this problem. The sensor controls how much load is on the engine and will cause the rich running condition. I have never known one that can be cleaned and fix the problem. I recommend replacing the sensor and testing the computer for codes.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

I now know my catalytic converter is bad can I still drive it to work til I have it fixed in a day, I drive one way 65 miles
Although you catalytic converter may still allow the car to run, there is often times no telling when it will cause the car to not run. As you have experienced, this will cause the car to get very poor fuel...
PCV valve hose collapses
I am guessing your PCV collapsed because it is old and weak. This will cause your PCV to collapse while it is in vacuum. I would recommend going to your local auto parts store and picking up a reinforced braided...
Brakes hard to push pedal when cold not stoping very good after warm they work better
Hi there. From the description you have provided, your vehicle's hard brake pedal is a safety concern. It could be, the power brake booster check valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/vacuum-brake-booster-check-valve-replacement) is faulty. It could be, the brake booster itself, is at fault. A...
Blower fuse gets HOT!!
Hi there. Which side of the fuse is getting the heat? Does it stay hot all the time? It is highly recommended to not install a higher rated fuse as this may cause system damage. If it's the blower circuit...
My car has possible alternator problems
Replacing the battery was a good first move, but it may not be the end of your problems. The alternator may not be charging up to it's capacity. You might not notice a problem for a while with a new...
Oil pressure gague on 0 and check engine light on
Hi There, It sounds like one of two things are happening. Either the motor is in fact low on oil or the oil pressure sending unit (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/oil-pressure-sensor-replacement) is not working properly and may be producing a faulty reading. I would...
Reduced engine power 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe 5.7L
Hello - the reduced power mode (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/is-it-safe-to-drive-with-the-reduced-power-light-on) your truck drops into is electrical in nature, and most often a problem with bad ground wire connections between the engine and chassis, and the chassis and battery. This is a wide-spread issue...
How much to change the driver side valve cover gasket on a 99 suburban 5.7 liter
Hi there. In order to provide you with an estimate to have your valve cover gasket, we'll need to receive a bit more information about your vehicle and location. Please click this link (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/valve-cover-gasket-replacement) and then click the Get a...
My 2002 mazda protege 5 is flashing the o/d light
Hi There, If your overdrive light is blinking (like a turn signal or hazard light), it is indicating that there is a problem with your car’s transmission. It could be the shift solenoid or possibly the speed or range sensors...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You're Towing a Boat
If If you’re towing a boat, the vehicle that you buy is largely going to depend on the size and weight of your boat plus trailer. Most cars, realistically, aren’t cut out for the job. We recommend a pickup truck...
How to Use “Stow ‘n’ Go” Seats in a Dodge or Chrysler Minivan
Minivans Minivans offer customers maximum interior space for the size of the vehicle. On a platform just a bit larger than a full size car, you can fit a driver and six passengers - or a driver, three passengers, and...
Ten Sports Cars That Double as Good Daily Drivers
The best daily driver is a car that's reliable, usable, and still fun to drive. Popular daily sports cars include the BMW M3, Subaru WRX, and VW GTI.