Any fool can chuck new parts at a mechanical problem until it goes away. But why throw good money out the window when you don't have to? That's why over the next year (or maybe longer, who knows) we'll highlight some problems common to Jeep models, walk you through the diagnostic tests to pinpoint the issue, and show you the solution.

MAP Malfunction

All fuel-injected Jeeps use a MAP (manifold absolute pressure) sensor to determine how much fuel the engine requires. The MAP sensor monitors engine manifold vacuum and translates that reading into an electric signal sent to the ECU. Depending on the voltage from the MAP sensor, the ECU will fire the injector for a longer or shorter burst to deliver more or less fuel, as the case may be. It's a fairly foolproof and simple design, but they can have issues. If after the engine has come up to operating temperature your Jeep suffers poor drivability, surging, rough idle, excessively rich exhaust, or pinging even with mid-grade fuel, chances are the MAP sensor has begun to go out of range or has failed altogether. The thing is, a bad MAP sensor won't always trigger a check engine light or cause the computer to register a DTC (diagnostic trouble code).

Diagnostics

Newer Jeeps, especially '96-newer OBDII models, have the MAP sensor mounted either on the manifold or right next to the throttle body. Older Jeeps, especially '95-older OBDI models, will have the MAP sensor mounted remotely, usually on a firewall-mounted bracket.

First, you can check for codes, but like we just said, many times a failing MAP sensor won't throw a code until it has died altogether. It doesn't work with all models, but if you don't have a code scanner you can sometimes turn the key from Off to Run three times in succession and then leave the key forward in the Run position after the final time. Watch the digital odometer display or look for flashing indicator lights. Either note the code that is displayed or count the flashes. The OBDI code for a faulty MAP will be either DTC 13 or 14, while the OBDII code is P0108. But chances are you won't have a scan tool or be lucky enough to have your Jeep flash codes.

Test for voltage at the plug connector as indicated in the photos and captions, and make sure the vacuum line to the MAP sensor isn't kinked, crushed, or leaking. The MAP sensor should also hold vacuum without bleeding down. Follow the photos and caption for the full rundown.

The Fix

With a MAP sensor the only fix is to replace the unit if found faulty. Thankfully, in addition to offering tons of really cool aftermarket gear to personalize your Jeep, Quadratec offers a whole array of high-quality OE-spec replacement parts. After determining ours was faulty, we ordered a new MAP sensor and had it installed in minutes. The Jeep immediately regained its drivability and no longer surged, bucked, or idled harshly. We haven't calculated a full tank yet for actual numbers, but the mileage seems improved as well.

Parts and Special Tools

Quadratec offers replacement parts for all Jeep models from current JK all the way back to the '41 Willys, as well as certain specialty hand and diagnostic tools. Our tools were part of our current inventory, but if you don't want to buy special diagnostic tools, your local auto parts store will sometimes rent or loan what you need.

• Multi-meter with DC scale

• Hand-operated vacuum pump

• Quadratec PN 55122.2001 MAP sensor for '87-‘95 Jeep Wrangler and Cherokee with 4.0L or 2.5L engine