Yes, an engine vacuum leak can reduce your vehicle’s fuel economy because it will cause problems with the engine’s performance. More on that below. Dad’s Automotive would be happy to inspect your engine if you have noticed a significant reduction in your fuel economy and/or experienced any of the following problems. We can replace the leaking vacuum hose to restore your engine’s performance.
Engine Performance Loss
The engine uses the vacuum that is produced in the combustion chamber to power components. As such, the vacuum pressure is routed through the engine using hoses. If any of these hoses starts to leak, the engine will fill with air and begin to sputter and struggle to produce power. You may also notice that your car, truck, or utility vehicle has problems accelerating when you press down on the accelerator.
Hissing or Suction Noises
An engine vacuum leak may reveal itself through strange engine noises. Generally, the engine will either hiss or you will hear suction coming from the leaking vacuum hose. The latter can sound like the hose on a shop vac or household vacuum. It’s important to have the vacuum leak repaired as soon as possible to prevent the engine vacuum from escaping from the hose that is either hissing or making section sounds.
RPMs That Are Erratic or Too High
As the vacuum pressure escapes from the leaking hose, you will notice problems with the engine’s RPMs. A steady vacuum leak that does not come out of the hose in spurts will increase the RPMs steadily. If the vacuum leak is coming out of the hose in spurts, the RPMs will go up and down erratically. You will see all of this activity if you take a look at your tachometer needle.
Malfunctioning Components
As we mentioned above, the vacuum pressure that is produced in the combustion chamber is used to help power the various components in the engine. The power steering pump is one example of a component that is powered by vacuum pressure. If there is a vacuum leak in the engine, you may have problems with your power steering system such as unresponsiveness or a stiff steering wheel.
Check Engine Warning
Finally, the above may be accompanied by an illuminated check engine light. This dashboard warning light covers problems that are not covered by other lights or gauges.
As we mentioned above, Dad’s Automotive in New Era, MI, would be happy to fix the leaking vacuum hose in your engine. Call us today for an appointment.
