Barometric Pressure Sensor Circuit High
The P2226 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Barometric Pressure Sensor Circuit High. This is a low severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Yes, but fix soon
- DIY difficulty
- moderate
- Estimated cost
- $40 - $250 (parts and labor)
Best-selling code reader on Amazon. Reads and clears check engine codes on any 1996+ vehicle. Under $30.
Essential for diagnosing sensor codes, checking voltage, and testing circuits. Under $15 and pays for itself on the first job.
Affiliate links — we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
What Are the Symptoms of P2226?
- Check Engine Light on
- Engine may run rich
- Decreased fuel economy
- Black smoke from exhaust under load
- Sluggish throttle response
What Causes P2226? (Most Likely First)
- Short to voltage in the barometric pressure sensor wiring Very High
- Failed barometric pressure sensor reading high High
- Water intrusion in the sensor connector Moderate
- Damaged wiring shorted to another circuit Moderate
- ECM internal circuit fault Low
Can I Still Drive with P2226?
Yes, but fix soon. P2226 is rated low severity. It is not an immediate stop-driving fault, but it will not clear itself — book the repair rather than ignoring the light.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when barometric pressure reads high?
The ECM interprets a high reading as low altitude and increases fuel delivery, which can cause the engine to run rich with poor fuel economy and black exhaust smoke.
Can weather changes trigger P2226?
A properly functioning sensor should handle weather-related pressure changes without triggering codes. If weather changes cause P2226, the sensor or its circuit is marginal and needs attention.
Is the barometric sensor the same as the BARO sensor?
Yes, BARO is the abbreviation commonly used in diagnostic literature for the barometric pressure sensor.
Mechanics Guide Step-by-step diagnosis
How Do You Diagnose P2226?
-
Read the barometric pressure sensor value and compare to actual atmospheric pressure
-
Inspect wiring for shorts to voltage or other circuits
-
Check the connector for water intrusion or damaged pins
-
Disconnect the sensor and verify the signal drops
-
Replace the barometric sensor if wiring is intact
Sources 2
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
- SAE J2012Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (defines the generic OBD-II code ranges)
- Cross-checked against the SAE J2012:2002 DTC table (2026-08-27)archived scan of the SAE standard — readable copy, not SAE’s current edition
Which Vehicles Commonly Get P2226?
- 2008-2018 Honda Civic
- 2010-2020 Toyota Camry
- 2009-2019 Ford Focus
- 2011-2020 Mazda3
- 2012-2020 Chevrolet Malibu
Explore More
Was this helpful?
Send this to whoever is fixing the car — your mechanic, or the person asking what the light means.