Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor

Replace the Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor on a 2009 Aston Martin DB9 6.0L V12 to restore proper engine load and boost monitoring for optimal performance and fuel economy.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• MAP Sensor × 1 — Use OEM Aston Martin specification or verified aftermarket equivalent
• Intake manifold gasket/seal (if damaged) × 1 — Inspect during removal; replace only if necessary

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Allow engine to cool completely (minimum 2 hours after operation)
3. If available, retrieve diagnostic trouble codes using an OBD-II scan tool and document for comparison after repair
4. Open hood and secure in open position
5. Disconnect negative battery terminal to prevent fault codes during sensor disconnection

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate the MAP Sensor
   The MAP sensor on the DB9 6.0L V12 is mounted on the intake manifold assembly. Consult OEM Aston Martin service documentation to confirm the exact sensor location before proceeding, as the precise mounting point must be verified for this platform. Use a flashlight to identify the sensor per the Aston Martin workshop manual. Confirm its connector type and mounting method (direct manifold mount vs. vacuum port) against the manual rather than assuming. Note: it will have an electrical connector and either a vacuum port or direct mounting to the intake manifold. Verify the exact sensor appearance against OEM Aston Martin documentation before removal. Note: The MAP sensor on the DB9 6.0L V12 is mounted on or near the intake manifold assembly. Consult the Aston Martin workshop manual (AMDS) to confirm the exact sensor location before proceeding. Use a flashlight to identify the sensor—it will have a single electrical connector and a vacuum port or direct mounting to the intake manifold.he intake manifold. Note: The MAP sensor on the DB9 6.0L V12 is mounted on the intake manifold assembly. Consult Aston Martin service documentation for the exact sensor location on this engine before proceeding. Note: The sensor is a plastic component with a single electrical connector; confirm appearance against the OEM part before removal.
2. 2

   Remove Engine Cover Components
   Remove the engine cover assembly to access the intake manifold area. Confirm the cover fastener type and locations against the Aston Martin workshop manual, as the cover may be retained by clips, studs, or other fasteners rather than perimeter Torx screws. Lift the cover carefully, noting any rubber grommets or alignment features. Set aside in a clean area. Note: The cover is secured at multiple points around the perimeter; verify the fastener type and count against Aston Martin service documentation before removal.
3. 3

   Disconnect MAP Sensor Electrical Connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the MAP sensor. Press the release tab (typically on the side of the connector) and pull the connector straight away from the sensor. Do not pull on the wiring harness itself. If the connector is tight due to age, use gentle rocking motion while maintaining pressure on the release tab.
4. 4

   Disconnect Vacuum Line (if equipped)
   If the MAP sensor has a separate vacuum line connection (some configurations mount directly to the manifold), carefully disconnect the vacuum hose by squeezing any retaining clip and pulling straight off. Inspect the hose for cracks or deterioration; replace if damaged.
5. 5

   Remove MAP Sensor Mounting Fasteners
   Remove the fastener(s) securing the MAP sensor to the intake manifold. Verify the exact count and fastener type against OEM Aston Martin documentation, as this sensor may use a single screw or a retaining clip rather than two Torx fasteners. Keep fasteners organized for reinstallation. Note the orientation and position of the sensor for correct installation of the replacement. Note: Remove the MAP sensor mounting fastener(s) securing the sensor to the intake manifold. Verify the exact fastener count and driver type against the Aston Martin workshop manual before proceeding, as the sensor may use a single screw or push-in retainer rather than two Torx screws. Note: Remove the fastener(s) securing the MAP sensor to the intake manifold. Verify the exact fastener count and Torx/driver size against Aston Martin service documentation before removal.
6. 6

   Remove MAP Sensor from Manifold
   Carefully pull the MAP sensor straight out from its mounting location. There may be an O-ring seal between the sensor and manifold port. If the sensor is difficult to remove, gently twist while pulling—do not pry against the manifold surface. Inspect the O-ring seal and replace if damaged or hardened.
7. 7

   Inspect Manifold Port and Connections
   Examine the manifold port where the sensor was mounted for debris, carbon buildup, or damage. Clean the port opening with electrical contact cleaner if necessary. Verify the vacuum port (if applicable) is clear and unobstructed. Check the electrical connector on the harness for corrosion or bent pins.
8. 8

   Install New MAP Sensor
   If a new O-ring seal is included with the replacement sensor, install it onto the sensor before installation. Align the new MAP sensor with the mounting port, ensuring correct orientation (the electrical connector should face the same direction as the original). Push the sensor firmly into place until fully seated against the manifold surface.
   Torque spec

   MAP Sensor Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Install MAP Sensor Mounting Fasteners
   Install the mounting fastener(s) hand-tight first to ensure proper thread engagement. Using a torque wrench, tighten the fastener(s) to the OEM-specified torque value (verify from Aston Martin service documentation); if more than one fastener is present, tighten in an alternating pattern to ensure even seating. Do not overtighten as this can crack the sensor housing. Note: Using a torque wrench, tighten the fastener(s) to the Aston Martin specified torque for the MAP sensor mounting screw(s). Verify this value in the workshop manual before tightening. Do not overtighten as this can crack the sensor housing. Note: Using a torque wrench, tighten the fastener(s) to the Aston Martin specified torque value in an alternating pattern to ensure even seating. Do not overtighten as this can crack the sensor housing.
   Torque spec

   MAP Sensor Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect Vacuum Line and Electrical Connector
    If applicable, reconnect the vacuum hose to the MAP sensor, ensuring it is fully seated and any retaining clip engages properly. Connect the electrical connector to the MAP sensor by pushing straight in until you hear or feel a distinct click indicating the locking tab has engaged. Gently pull on the connector to verify it is secure.
11. 11

    Reinstall Engine Cover
    Position the engine cover assembly back onto the engine, aligning all mounting grommets and alignment features. Install and tighten all cover fasteners (type per the Aston Martin workshop manual) in a crossing pattern to ensure even seating. Verify the cover sits flush with no gaps.
12. 12

    Reconnect Battery and Clear Codes
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal. If using a scan tool, clear any stored MAP sensor-related fault codes. Start the engine and allow it to idle for 2-3 minutes to establish baseline sensor readings. Note: Replace the Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor on a 2009 Aston Martin DB9 6.0L V12 to restore proper engine load monitoring for optimal performance and fuel economy. Note: Using a scan tool (Aston Martin AMDS or capable generic OBD-II tool), verify no MAP sensor fault codes are present; cross-check the applicable code list against the vehicle's actual diagnostic system Note: Check live data stream to confirm MAP sensor is reading appropriate values at idle (lower kPa under manifold vacuum, rising toward atmospheric with throttle input); compare against Aston Martin specified live-data values where available

Reassembly

1. Reinstall components in reverse order of removal
2. Ensure all electrical connections are fully seated and locked
3. Verify engine cover is properly aligned and all fasteners are secure
4. Double-check that no tools or parts have been left in the engine bay

Verification

• Start the engine and verify it runs smoothly with no rough idle or hesitation
• Using an OBD-II scan tool, verify no MAP sensor fault codes are present (P0105, P0106, P0107, P0108, P0109)
• Check live data stream to confirm MAP sensor is reading appropriate values (typically 20-48 kPa at idle, rising with throttle input)
• Perform a brief test drive to verify normal acceleration and no check engine light illumination
• Re-scan for codes after test drive to ensure no pending or intermittent faults

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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