What is a car vacuum leak?
Almost all cars use the vacuum created by a running engine to run or assist some vital system. This works well under normal circumstances, but does create multiple opportunities for malfunction.Vacuum ApplicationsAlmost all modern cars use engine vacuum to assist with power braking and to create vacuum in the engine crankcase. Other vacuum systems include windshield wipers, climate control and emissions controls.Air/Fuel Ratio EffectsGasoline engines require 14.1 parts of air to one part fuel. A leaking vacuum tube can allow more air into the engine than it is tuned for, leading to misfires, rough idling and loss of power and fuel economy.Leaking CouplersMost often, vacuum leaks occur where the rubber vacuum lines connect to either the engine or accessories.Dry-Rotted HosesThough the usage of modern synthetic hoses prolongs this effect, all flexible lines will eventually begin to harden. Under sustained engine movement, these brittle hoses will begin to crack and leak.DiagnosisComputer
