Circuit/System Description

The barometric pressure (BARO) sensor measures the pressure of the atmosphere. This pressure is affected by altitude and weather conditions. A diaphragm within the BARO sensor is displaced by the pressure changes that occur from varying altitudes and weather conditions. The sensor translates this action into electrical resistance. The BARO sensor wiring includes 3 circuits. The BARO sensor and all related circuits are inside the engine control module (ECM). The BARO sensor provides a signal voltage to the ECM, relative to the pressure changes on the BARO sensor signal circuit. The ECM converts the signal voltage input to a pressure value. Changes in BARO due to weather are relatively small, while changes due to altitude are significant. Pressure can range from 56 kPa at an altitude of 4,267 meters (14,000 feet), to 105 kPa at or below sea level. The BARO sensor has a range of 0-128 kPa. The ECM uses the BARO sensor input for fuel delivery and other diagnostics.