P0236: Turbocharger/Supercharger Boost Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance

What does P0236 mean?

Boost sensor A gives a reading that is not plausible for the operating conditions. The signal can be electrically present yet fail to match the pressure the engine should be seeing.

Generic OBD-II definition: Turbocharger/Supercharger Boost Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance. Confirm applicability in your vehicle service information.

Common causes

• Faulty or contaminated boost sensor/pressure port
• Leaking or restricted pressure/vacuum hoses
• Boost-control solenoid or related control problem

Symptoms

• Reduced boost and acceleration
• Limp mode
• Check engine light

Diagnostic focus

A plausibility fault needs both a sensor check and a pressure-system check. If key-on pressure is correct but readings diverge under load, inspect hoses and boost control before blaming the sensor.

Can I keep driving with P0236?

Severity: Medium Drive gently and get it diagnosed soon.

If the check engine light is flashing or the car runs badly, stop driving and have it checked.

Typical fixes

• Compare key-on boost pressure with barometric pressure
• Inspect charge-air and control hoses
• Verify sensor response and boost-control operation under the approved test

Sources & review

• OBD-Codes.com: P0236
• TroubleCodes.net: generic code definitions

Definitions and diagnostic background checked 2026-11-06. Generic guidance, not a substitute for the service procedure for your exact year, engine, and transmission.