Dodge Nitro: Engine Problems / Code Errors

Dodge Nitro P0108: MAP Barometric Sensor → High Input

December 18, 2019 by Jason



P0108 is a generic OBD-II trouble code. It indicates your Dodge Nitro’s MAP (manifold absolute pressure) sensor’s voltage reading is outside of the normal operating range. The voltage is too high. It’s most commonly caused by a bad MAP sensor, wiring issue, or vacuum leak.

The MAP sensor measures the air pressure coming into your Nitro’s engine and sends that signal to the ECM. It does this by sending a voltage ranging from 1 to 5 volts. 1 volt would be idle speed. The signal should be at 5 volts whenever the vehicle is at wide open throttle. P0108 is triggered whenever the signal from this wire is MORE THAN 5 volts, which shouldn’t happen.

P0108 can also trigger if the ECM thinks the voltage coming from the MAP sensor is higher than it should be at any given time.

Dodge Nitro P0108: MAP Barometric Sensor → High Input

December 18, 2019 by Jason



P0108 is a generic OBD-II trouble code. It indicates your Dodge Nitro’s MAP (manifold absolute pressure) sensor’s voltage reading is outside of the normal operating range. The voltage is too high. It’s most commonly caused by a bad MAP sensor, wiring issue, or vacuum leak.

The MAP sensor measures the air pressure coming into your Nitro’s engine and sends that signal to the ECM. It does this by sending a voltage ranging from 1 to 5 volts. 1 volt would be idle speed. The signal should be at 5 volts whenever the vehicle is at wide open throttle. P0108 is triggered whenever the signal from this wire is MORE THAN 5 volts, which shouldn’t happen.

P0108 can also trigger if the ECM thinks the voltage coming from the MAP sensor is higher than it should be at any given time.






P0108 Quick Facts

• P0108 is caused when there’s too much voltage coming from the MAP sensor to the ECM.
• Most commonly caused by a bad MAP sensor. Vacuum or wiring issue are the next most common causes.
• Usually results in a rough running vehicle.
• A voltage meter is required to diagnose the MAP sensor.

P0108 Symptoms: Dodge Nitro
P0108 is always going to do more than just trigger the check engine light. The MAP sensor is vital to a well running vehicle. If it’s gone bad, it’ll really affect drivability.

Here are the most common symptoms of P0108:

• Poor Gas Mileage
• Rough Running/Stalling Engine
• Motor Won’t Start at All
• Black Exhaust Smoke
• Check Engine Light

Dodge Nitro P0108 Causes + Diagnosis
When diagnosing this code, if your Nitro is running fine you should first reset the code and take the vehicle out and try to reproduce the problem. It may have just been a one time thing.


Map Sensor
The first thing that you should do is test the MAP sensor itself. A good voltmeter is necessary for this step. You can get them pretty cheap from any hardware store or Amazon. The reading from the voltmeter should be around 1 to 1.5 volts at idle. If it’s higher, you may need a new MAP sensor.

Here’s a pretty good YouTube video that shows exactly how you would go about testing the sensor:

Map Sensor Testing

Vacuum Leak
A vacuum leak is a very common reason that P0108 is triggered. If there isn’t enough vacuum going to the MAP sensor it’ll give a higher voltage reading than the operating conditions suggest should be there.

The vacuum supply to the MAP sensor could have a leak, or there could be a vacuum leak around the engine as a whole. Check all the vacuum lines on the engine. Check to see if any of them appear to be brittle, melted or cracked. If they are, replace them and see if that solves the problem.

Another place that vacuum can leak from the intake manifold. Here’s a solid article from Popular Mechanics on how to track down a vacuum leak.


Wiring Issues
The easiest thing that you can do when P0108 is triggered is check your Nitro’s wiring harness. Is it plugged in to the MAP Sensor tightly? Does it have any visible signs of damage? Follow it as far as you can and make sure. It’s going to have a ground wire. Make sure that ground is plugged in tightly. Here’s a good video on how to find a short in a vehicle.


Other
While the three causes listed above are the most common reasons P0108 shows up, there are other reasons as well. If your Nitro’s motor is worn out and isn’t producing a good vacuum anymore, that’ll cause the MAP sensor to output a higher voltage at all times and throw the code.

It’s also possible that an engine that is misfiring or has low fuel pressure can trigger this code as well. It would need to be a pretty noticeable misfire. You should also get P0300 or P030X (X representing the cylinder number of the misfire) with P0108 if misfiring was the case.


Conclusion: P0108 Nitro
While it is most likely to be the MAP sensor itself that is causing P0108 in your Dodge Nitro, properly identifying the problem can save you from purchasing and installing a sensor that you don’t need If there is anything that you would like to add, please leave a comment below. Good luck!
Categories Dodge Nitro Post navigation

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Dodge Nitro Misfire UPDATE (PO302)

Back in 2019 I had a engine error code PO302 on my 2007 Dodge Nitro R/T 4.0 engine and used
Chevron Techron Concentrate Plus Fuel System Cleaner - 20 oz. to correct this issue.

Well that same code reappeared unexpectedly now and this time I took to my Dealership since it missing so bad.

I was sure they would say it needed injectors replaced, or a coil pack and spark plugs or All three! A very expensive service repair.

Well I was surprised. Yes it was expensive but not that bad (see below)

Service ticket stated that #2 was misfiring and that the tech swapped plugs and coils and found that misfire followed to cylinder where plug was moved and suggested tuneup for failed plug.

Could not find any other issues and installed 6 MOPAR SZFR5LP13G spark plugs. Tech drove Nitro and stated I was good-to-go.

The total labor charges were $260.00 and $66.90 ($11.15 each) for the plugs. NOW the really good news.... On the Dealer Website under Service Coupons there was FALL into SAVINGS on Service Coupon for 20% OFF PARTS & LABOR! That bill was lower a full 20% on parts & labor by the cashier when I paid for the service!

In all my years I have never seen such a great coupon for Dealer Service. Great Savings, very pleased.

Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP)
Blog / By Dan McClave



It is a great pleasure to take a closer look at EVAP; namely, Evaporative Emission Control System with you today.

Truthfully, many people do not realize how complicated their car is. Today’s cars contain several hundred systems and sensors that monitor everything from road conditions to engine performance and everything in between.
All these systems make it safer and easier for you to drive your car. That’s why it is important to maintain your car and take the necessary action when you are alerted to a problem. These systems are designed to ensure your safety and protect the environment at the same time. One of the systems designed to protect the environment is the Evaporative Emissions Control System or EVAP.
What is EVAP?
Most people learn about the EVAP system when they forget to replace or do not tighten the gas cap after refueling. The EVAP system with an aim to capture vapors in the fuel tank and prevent them from escaping into the environment.
Since it’s a completely closed system, any small leak will cause a fault resulting in the engine light coming on. You probably will not even notice a problem because a small leak won’t affect the way the car drives. About the only thing you will notice is the annoying glowing check engine light.
How does Evaporative Emissions Control System work?
Believe it or not, the fuel we burn contains over 100 chemicals which are very harmful to the environment. The reason to add these chemicals is to enable the fuel to burn more cleanly and pollute less. Gasoline vapors are very dangerous to humans and are one of the leading causes of smog and air pollution.
For this reason, car companies had to develop a system that would prevent these harmful vapors from polluting the environment. This Government mandate was implemented in the ’70s. It stated that the EVAP system must collect, store and dispose of gasoline vapors before they could impact the environment.
The typical system is simple in design but somewhat complex in operation. It includes a canister full of charcoal, several valves, lots of hoses and vents and of course the sealed gas cap. The system is closed so that any excess fuel vapors are collected and stored in the charcoal canister. These vapors will eventually be added to the normal fuel/air mixture and burned during combustion.
What are the components of EVAP?
There are several components that comprise the EVAP system. The main component is the gas tank which is where the vapors come from. There are sensors in the gas tank that measure both the amount of fuel and the tank pressure.
On newer cars, the gas tank may also include the fuel pump, filter and pressure regulator as manufacturers like to group these components together. The gas tank also uses a sealed gas cap which is where 99% of the leaks come from.
From the gas tank, the fuel vapors are vented to the charcoal canister where they are stored. The canister is basically a big lump of charcoal that absorbs the vapors and prevents them from escaping into the atmosphere. The computer controls the canister purge valve which enables the stored vapors to be added to the normal air/fuel mixture. There is also a canister vent valve that prevents outside air from entering the system during testing.
As you can see the system is not overly complex, but all valves and sensors must work perfectly so that the computer can control the process. Any small leak or failed sensor will generate a problem and in turn, will illuminate the check engine light.
What are common problem related to EVAP?
Since the EVAP system is a closed system, any small leak or failed sensor will generate a system fault. Obviously, the indication that there is a problem will start with the check engine light.
You typically will not notice any change in the performance of the car due to an EVAP leak. Let’s look at some symptoms, fault codes, fixes and things that you can do to prevent problems.
Symptoms of bad evap or evap leak?

• Check engine light is on
• Fuel odor
• Rough engine idle
• Stalling
• Poor gas mileage
• Hesitation when accelerating

Common obd2 fault codes related to evap
If the check engine light illuminates you won’t know if it’s the EVAP system or something else until you identify the fault code. To get that code you can go to an auto parts store or take your car into the dealer.
Some of the common fault codes associated with the EVAP system are as follows:

• P0440 code means that a leak has been detected or the vapor pressure sensor in the fuel tank has malfunctioned. One indication might be a faint odor of gasoline originating from the gas tank.
• P0445 code means that the EVAP purge valve is malfunctioning by either being stuck open/closed or has shorted out. Some of the symptoms of this problem are fuel odor, rough engine idle, hesitation or stalling.
• P0449 code means that the EVAP vent control valve is malfunctioning due to an electrical issue (high resistance) or mechanical issue (sticking valve). One obvious symptom may be a noticeable fuel odor but usually no change in car performance.
• P0455 code means that there is a huge leak in the system. There may be a noticeable odor but usually no performance issues. When this error code is triggered it usually means that there is a large hole somewhere. Something like a hole in the canister or a missing gas cap would be good examples.
• P0441 code means that the computer has detected that the flow through the purge valve is incorrect. Again, this could be due to faulty hoses or an electrical connection to the purge valve. It could even be caused by a faulty vacuum switch, so all possibilities need to be considered.
• P0442 code means that there is a small leak in the EVAP system. The gas cap is usually the culprit but a pinhole in a hose or a loose-fitting hose could also cause this. One symptom of this type of leak might be reduced gas mileage.
• P0446 code means that the computer has detected a short in the vent control valve circuit. A symptom of this type of leak is reduced gas mileage.
• P0440 code means that a vapor pressure sensor has malfunctioned or there is a leak in the fuel tank vapor system. A common problem is a leak in the fuel tank vapor lines or a loose gas cap. You may also notice a fuel smell if the leak is large enough.
• P0452 code means that the computer has detected a voltage issue with the EVAP system. The measured voltage must be with a certain range or else system components could be affected. The major component that would be affected by low voltage is the fuel tank pressure sensor.

How to fix an EVAP leak?
As far as we know, EVAP leaks are usually identified by a computer error code. The truth is any car code reader can reveal those codes. Unfortunately, the error code may point you in the right direction but will not usually pinpoint the exact problem. To find and fix the source of the problem requires a process of elimination. In some cases, an accident will damage one of the components of the EVAP system. This type of damage may not appear right away but may take some time to show itself. Finding and fixing an EVAP system leak often involves patience and experience by a trained technician.
Causes may lead to EVAP Leaks
Some of the problems that will cause an EVAP system problem include the following:

• Loose-fitting, wrong or missing gas cap
• A leak in the charcoal canister
• A leak in any of the hoses that interconnect the system components
• The leak in the fuel tank
• Sticking purge valve or vent valve

Check the gas cap if it’s loosed. Recommendation of what to do with EVAP leak: EVAP maintenance tips
Due to the design of the system, eliminating every source of leaks is a daunting task. As we have pointed out, the gas cap is the cause of 99% of the problems. Many people do not realize the importance of this simple component. Just making sure it is right and tight will go a long way to keeping the system operating correctly.
Obviously, components will fail over time so ensuring that your car is maintained on a regular basis is important. For example, at your next oil change ask the Technician to do a visual inspection of the EVAP system. They may spot a cracked hose or crack in the canister that can easily be fixed on the spot.
Bottom line
As with any system in your car the EVAP system has an important job to do, protecting the environment. If you look at the systems and processes that make up the design of your car, you will see that most are focused on protecting the environment.
From the moment fuel enters the tank until it is burned and discharged into the environment, your car is in control. For this reason alone, it is important to maintain your car’s systems and not ignore any warning signs of a problem.
We are all in this together and we need to do out part to protect the environment, one car at a time.

Products
Top 5 Best Bluetooth OBD2 Scanners
Top 5 Best Bluetooth OBD2 Scanners
How to save hundreds by doing DIY diagnostic scanning on your car.
AutoGuide.com Staff
Published Aug 24, 2022


Photo Credit: WishnclickS via Shutterstock
Everyone knows how imperative it is to service their vehicles to make sure they’re running smoothly and efficiently. But even if someone is following the manufacturer-suggested service intervals and keeping their car in good shape, the check engine light might show up and ruin the good feels that come with proper maintenance. But there’s no need to panic and take another costly trip to your mechanic. Running diagnostics on your own car is easy.
Your car has a computer system that monitors various other subsystems that make your car work. On-board diagnostics (OBD) tools allow you to check the status of your car’s subsystems without having to go to a mechanic. From diagnosing a check engine light to figuring out your fuel economy, there’s a lot an OBD scanner can do for you.
With Bluetooth devices, it gets even easier as you can now use your tablets or smartphones as dependable diagnostic scanning tools. Using apps that talk to a Bluetooth scanner plugged into your car’s computer, the interface of the diagnostic tool would be one you’re already used to.
While there are many types of OBD2 scanning tools, Bluetooth wireless scanners are much more convenient than traditional ones. To help you pick an OBD2 scanner for your vehicle, we have compiled a list of the top 5 best Bluetooth OBD2 scanners.
For more information on Bluetooth OBD2 scanners, refer to our table of contents.
Table of contents

1. Editor's Pick: BAFX Products Bluetooth Diagnostic OBD2 Scanner

The BAFX Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner can read and clear Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) on both Windows and Android platforms. The device provides users with an easy setup so that even beginners can diagnose and check their vehicles on their own, and can even be made to work more smoothly using third-party applications like the Torque Pro.
The BAFX OBD2 scan tool is compatible with all American-based vehicles manufactured in the year 1996 and later. Unlike other cheaper models in the same price range, this scanner does not have any issues with J1850 and CAN systems, so you know you can rely on its compatibility and performance. The scanner offers real-time sensor information and can send it to your phone via Bluetooth so that you can be remotely informed about crucial data.
You can get a demo version of the software when buying the scanner to use with your PC. BAFX Products offers users a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty, and also boasts amazing customer service that can deal with any issues your scanner faces even after the warranty expires.
That said, since the scanner has been designed to work for vehicles in the United States, any international clients outside the U.S. may have compatibility issues. Check with the manufacturer before purchasing if you’re planning to use it on a vehicle outside the U.S. Even though the device doesn’t cater to iOS users, it still holds positive reviews in the Android and Windows communities, making it an ideal choice for a basic OBD2 scanner.

• Pros/Great performance, provides readable OBD2 check engine light codes, gives graph sensor readings, reset option for call, good warranty and customer service, easy to use
• Cons/Not compatible with iOS

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Promoted Product: Carly Scanner


The Carly Scanner is more than just an OBD2 scanner. Paired with Carly’s dedicated mobile app — available for iOS and Android in both a free version and a paid annual license option — Carly users get instant access to some seriously advanced features. We’re talking in-depth manufacturer-grade diagnostics, the ability to check used vehicles for odometer fraud, tracking live parameters and stats, and easily resetting service intervals. It even offers coding tools to unlock hidden features of your car (though you’ll need to upgrade to the paid license version of the app in order to access this and other features). Even if you buy the paid license, it will still be cheaper and easier than taking your car to a mechanic every time you want something coded, or an error code cleared.
The Carly Scanner works with all car models with an OBD2 port, using Bluetooth to establish a fast, secure connection, though it’s worth noting that the range of available features will depend on the make, model, and year of your car. That said, Carly is always working on developing new functions for more car brands; visit the company’s website to see the exact list of features Carly currently offers for your brand.
Simply put, Carly is the most advanced OBD2 device on the market, especially with their new feature, Smart Mechanic, which gives you detailed fault descriptions created by expert mechanics so you can see what you can repair yourself. And best of all? The Carly Scanner comes with a lifetime warranty and premium customer support for added peace of mind.

• Pros/Unlocks manufacturer-grade diagnostics and advanced features like coding, supports all car brands with an OBD2 port, compatible with both iOS and Android, comes with a lifetime warranty
• Cons/While all car brands are supported, some advanced features are only available on specific makes/models

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2. BlueDriver Professional OBD2 Scan Tool

The BlueDriver is a master of diagnosis and repair, so it isn’t focused on things like fuel efficiency and other driving data. It does provide you with accurate and detailed data readings on your car’s systems and the appropriate fixes for any issues it discovers.
Not only do you get to avoid any waste of time connecting and disconnecting your devices, but you can benefit from remote online downloads and upgrades without having to worry about connecting wires to your device. The wireless feature also makes the BlueDriver very easy to set up and use even for beginners. All you have to do is plug it in and read the data on your smartphone or tablet.
Another helpful feature is that the software is free of charge for downloading on Android and Apple platforms, making it convenient to connect with your mobile devices and gadgets with a quick download and pairing of an app. The bottom line is that the BlueDriver saves you money and time, making it a smart choice for any buyer.

• Pros/Complete compatibility, online software downloads and upgrades, perfect for Apple iOS and Google Android phones and devices, repair report saves time and money, durable, compatible with phones or tablets, lightweight and compact, portable, affordable, fast and efficient, user-friendly
• Cons/WiFi or Bluetooth connections can occasionally drop or be slow, not compatible with Windows

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3. Foseal WiFi OBD2 Scan Tool

The Foseal OBD2 WiFi Scanner is not just a scanning tool. The scanner comes with a built-in WiFi connection for mobile devices so that you can read, diagnose, and clear any and all OBD2 error codes in your vehicle’s computer systems. It is great for all vehicles that are OBD2-compliant and comes with data link connectors having 16 pins.
The Foseal OBD2 WiFi Scanner can show sensor data in real-time after getting each diagnostic, which is especially useful when you are checking the results of modifying your engine replacing any of your vehicle’s parts. You can collect information on the horsepower, fluid temperature, and fuel status using the display as well. Another great feature is the scanner allows you to see the load value, time advances, air flow rate, pressure intake, and oxygen sensor voltages among other things.
All this data can be viewed on your mobile devices with the Foseal OBD2 WiFi Scanner when it’s connected to the OBD2 vehicle system using a stable WiFi connection. The software is amazingly easy to download and install over WiFi onto your Windows, Android, and Apple devices so your car diagnosis becomes easier.
After getting the software, all you have to do is run it to check your vehicle. The scanner is ready to function and checks your car the instant you use the app to connect your phone to the OBD2 system, no fancy procedures necessary. It will offer various options where you can pick what areas to analyze and diagnose. Along with that, the scanner can also work while your vehicle is in motion so long as it remains close to the dashboard. This way, a driver can simply see when the car has an issue and take the appropriate safety measures to avoid any further damage.

• Pros/Affordable, quick and easy connection, fast data transfer, supports Windows, Android, and iOS, reads and clears error codes, works for vehicles manufactured between 1996 to the present, one-year money back guarantee
• Cons/No confirmed list of car models that are compatible with it, no battery saving mode, heavy, large in size, does not support SW-CAN (GM) and MS-CAN (FORD)

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4. Veepeak WiFi OBD2 Scanner Adapter

The Veepeak Mini WiFi OBD2 scanner is ideal for Android, Windows, and iOS devices, and is compatible with all vehicle models manufactured within the United States in and after 1996, including light trucks and minivans. This scanner can work on all American, European, and Asian vehicles within local transactions so vehicle models sold outside the United States will have to be checked for compatibility before purchasing this scanner.
However, as far as local compatibility goes, this scanner supports each one of the five OBD2 protocols. The Veepeak Mini Scanner can be connected to your Apple, Windows, and Android devices with considerable ease, which isn’t something you can say about other well-known products with similar price tags.
The scanner can connect with old and new models of each device to read and clear diagnostic trouble codes. Since the device is totally wireless and does not rely on connecting wires, you are provided with the ability to freely roam your garage and even drive while you use the scanner to monitor everything.
The Veepeak Mini WiFi OBD2 scanner is a great choice for any vehicle if you’re looking to save a few bucks when troubleshooting your vehicle. It is definitely a great addition to any beginner or professional’s toolbox so they can remotely read and clear codes and diagnose issues to make sure their vehicles are running smoothly. If you’re looking for a compact wireless scanning tool that is easy on the wallet, the Veepeak Mini WiFi OBD2 scanner is a great option.

• Pros/Compatible will all OBD2 vehicles sold in America, easy and simple to use, works with WiFi, Compatible with Android, Windows, or iOS devices, provides sensor data in real-time, 30-day money back guarantee and 12-month replacement warranty
• Cons/Some connectivity issues, caused battery drainage in certain cases

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5. Kitbest Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner and Adapter for Android

Kitbest’s Bluetooth OBD2 is an excellent little device with a lot of technology in it. You can take advantage of its amazing features if you have a vehicle of 1996 or any newer model. It is known for its wide-ranging compatibility. A trouble-free scan is now possible with a mini scanner that doesn’t require extra space in your car. OBD2 protocols that it supports include CAN, KWP2000, J1850 VPW, ISO9141-2, and J1850 PWM. Get the OBD2 app and control various problems with your smartphone or tablet.
This mini-wizard enables you to fix simple problems by yourself. It doesn’t only tell you the problem but also the ways to fix it. You can read the diagnostic trouble codes and then reset it. It is compatible with all Android devices by using a downloadable app. Moreover, it keeps you informed about your engine. The real-time engine data is at your disposal, which includes engine RPM, fuel system status, short/long term fuel economy, intake air temperature, and more. The data further contains information about intake manifold temperature, coolant temperature, vehicle speed, and oxygen sensor voltages.
This easy-to-use device contains Kitbest Bluetooth OBD2 Adapter and a user manual in its package. It comes with a 5-year replacement warranty and the company’s customer service is excellent.

• Pros/It can easily be connected, 100% compatible with 1996 and newer vehicles, get access to real-time engine data, you can see live info from the engine while driving
• Cons/It is only compatible with Android devices, doesn’t work on the diesel cars and trucks

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