Affected Component: Poor Engine Power
System: Engine / Emissions / Control
Severity: Moderate – May affect drivability or emissions
🔍 What Does Toyota Error Code P3190 Mean?
P3190 – Poor Engine Power means your Toyota’s Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected insufficient engine output, particularly during startup or under load. This condition is common in hybrid models like the Toyota Prius and can result from air-fuel imbalance or sensor-related issues that disrupt combustion efficiency.
📍 When and Why It Appears
- Engine cranks but fails to start or starts sluggishly
- Occurs frequently after long idle periods or cold starts
- Triggered alongside codes like P0A0F (Engine Failed to Start)
- ECM detects an imbalance in fuel injection, air intake, or ignition timing
⚠️ Common Symptoms of P3190
- Check Engine Light (CEL) illuminated
- Rough idle, misfire, or engine stalling
- Hesitation during acceleration or delayed response
- Reduced fuel efficiency and sluggish power delivery
🔎 Likely Causes
- Clogged or malfunctioning Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor
- Dirty or faulty throttle body
- Weak or failing fuel pump or clogged fuel filter
- Ignition coil or spark plug issues
- ECM malfunction or hybrid battery (for Prius models)
🧰 How to Diagnose Toyota Code P3190
- Connect a Toyota Techstream or enhanced OBD-II scanner
- Check for companion codes like P0A0F or P0171
- Inspect and clean the MAF sensor and throttle body
- Perform fuel pressure test to verify delivery
- Use live data to compare engine RPM, injector pulse, and O2 sensor activity
🔧 How to Fix Toyota Error Code P3190
- Clean or replace the MAF sensor
- Replace spark plugs or ignition coils if weak spark is detected
- Check and clean throttle body to remove carbon buildup
- Verify fuel pump and pressure regulator operation
- Reprogram or update ECM firmware if available
💰 Estimated Repair Costs (Philippines)
- MAF Sensor Cleaning/Replacement: ₱1,000 – ₱5,000
- Throttle Body Cleaning: ₱500 – ₱1,500
- Spark Plug/Coil Replacement: ₱1,500 – ₱4,000
- Fuel Pump Replacement: ₱4,000 – ₱8,000
- ECM Programming or Reset: ₱1,000 – ₱2,000
💡 Expert Tips
- Always inspect and clean intake sensors before replacing parts
- If P3190 and P0A0F occur together, suspect hybrid system coordination
- Battery voltage below 12V can disrupt ECU logic—check your battery
❓ FAQ – Toyota P3190
Can this code clear on its own?
It may clear temporarily if conditions improve, but it will return unless root causes are resolved.
Is it safe to drive with this code?
Short-term, yes. Long-term driving can lead to poor fuel economy and unstable engine performance.
Why does it appear more often in hybrids?
Hybrid models have strict parameters for engine startup and power assist. Any delay or imbalance triggers this code quickly.