What is a vacuum leak code?
Trouble code P0171 is indicative of a vacuum leak. We suspect somewhere around the engine there is a vacuum hose that is disconnected, broken or brittle. The break in the vacuum line(s) is allowing unmetered air to enter the intake manifold.
Is it OK to drive with a vacuum leak?
Driving with a vacuum leak should not be done because it causes a loss of power to your engine. This can be unsafe while driving down the road, especially if the leak increases as you are driving.
How expensive is it to fix a vacuum leak?
Depending on where the leak is in your vacuum system the repair cost can range from as low as about $150 to as much as $1,000. As you know, your engine requires not just fuel but oxygen to maintain a combustion reaction.
Can you drive a car with a vacuum leak?
What causes a vacuum leak in a car?
The probable cause of a vacuum leak is a cracked intake hose or a break in one of the several rubber tubes connected to the intake manifold. These parts deteriorate over time and become brittle. Although a leak is unlikely to cause major problems, you should have it fixed so the engine can perform optimally.
Will a vacuum leak damage my engine?
Engine damage Driving with a vacuum leak elevates temperatures within the engine compartment by running on a lean air-fuel ratio. This mixture over time can damage pistons and bearings, and can move to other parts within the engine, such as the catalytic converter.
Where can I find a vacuum leak in my BMW?
If you are in need of regular maintenance or are experiencing a vacuum leak, give us a call today. You can reach us at 972-418-1800 or stop by and see us at 1700 Surveyor Blvd., Suite 114. Ultimate Bimmer Service is an independent BMW shop that offers exceptional service in the Carrolton and Dallas, TX areas.
What are the symptoms of a vacuum leak in a car?
These are the common symptoms of a vacuum leak: Check Engine Light: If your car’s computer detects that you have a vacuum leak, it will illuminate your check engine light. This light may come on for a number of reasons. If the light has been triggered, take it to a technician, who can perform a diagnostic scan to find the trouble code.
Can a vacuum leak cause a misfire trouble code?
Vacuum leaks do often result in a check engine light and stored trouble codes in the engine control unit. Because the air flow meter is reading one value, and the vacuum leak will cause the air/fuel mixture to get leaner, you do often get trouble codes about a lean mixture or misfire trouble codes.
Can a vacuum leak cause a P0300 trouble code?
When it has a vacuum leak, the air/fuel mixture can sometimes get so lean that your car cannot fire the cylinders properly It will also often result in misfire trouble codes, like the P0300 trouble code. When your car is misfiring on one specific engine, it is usually caused by a vacuum leak around the intake manifold gasket.