2017 Cadillac CTS Has A Vacuum Leak

Diagnosing Vacuum Leaks in Your 2017 Cadillac CTS: Symptoms, Causes, and Repair Solutions

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Leaking Vacuum Hoses
0%
30% chance it's the
Leaking Gaskets and Seals
0%
20% chance it's the
Bad Actuators and Valves
0%
10% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2017 Cadillac CTS has a vacuum leak are leaking vacuum hoses, leaking gaskets and seals, or bad actuators and valves.
  • Leaking Vacuum Hoses: A cracked or disconnected vacuum hose can lead to a loss of engine vacuum, resulting in poor engine performance and increased fuel consumption.
  • Leaking Gaskets and Seals: Aged or damaged gaskets and seals can lead to fluid leaks, resulting in loss of engine oil or coolant and potential engine damage.
  • Bad Actuators and Valves: A malfunctioning actuator or valve can disrupt the proper operation of the vehicle's systems, leading to issues such as poor engine performance or erratic behavior of components like the HVAC system.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2017 Cadillac CTS has a vacuum leak?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Problems with the intake manifold gasket can create the following symptoms:

  • Illuminated check engine light
  • Erratic engine performance
  • Oil and coolant leaks
  • Poor gas mileage
  • Stalling

» LEARN MORE: Intake manifold gasket symptoms

Rough idling, lack of power, engine oil leaks, engine burning oil, and illumination of the check engine light are all possible if the PCV valve has clogged. If the check engine light comes on, the on-board diagnostics (OBD) trouble codes will most likely relate to manifold vacuum, air and fuel mixture, PCV system, mass airflow sensor readings, and exhaust and emissions readings. These are all affected in the event the PCV valve is clogged, is stuck fully open, or is stuck fully closed, however, if the valve is stuck fully open, the engine oil seals are not in danger of overpressure.

A bad valve cover gasket will result in an oil leak. You may notice oil under the car or on other parts under the hood. You might also notice a burning smell while driving.

» LEARN MORE: Signs of a bad valve cover gasket

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

What are the steps to diagnose a vacuum leak in a 2017 Cadillac CTS?

To effectively diagnose a vacuum leak in your 2017 Cadillac CTS, begin with a comprehensive visual inspection of the vacuum hoses and connections. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, holes, or loose fittings, as these are often the simplest indicators of a problem. Next, while the engine is running, listen for any hissing sounds that may suggest escaping air, which can help pinpoint the leak's location. For a more precise diagnosis, consider using a smoke machine; this tool introduces smoke into the vacuum system, making it easy to identify leaks where the smoke escapes. Alternatively, you can spray soapy water on the hoses and connections; if bubbles form, it indicates a leak. Additionally, checking the vacuum levels with a gauge can provide valuable insight, as lower than normal readings typically point to a leak. Finally, inspect the intake manifold gasket and the brake booster, as these components are common sources of vacuum leaks. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and resolve any vacuum leaks in your vehicle, ensuring optimal performance.

What are the common problems associated with vacuum leaks in a 2017 Cadillac CTS?

When it comes to vacuum leaks in a 2017 Cadillac CTS, several common problems can significantly affect the vehicle's performance. One of the most noticeable symptoms is rough idling, where the engine runs unevenly while stationary, making it clear to the driver that something is amiss. Additionally, vacuum leaks can lead to decreased engine performance, manifesting as reduced power and sluggish acceleration, which can be frustrating during driving. Another critical indicator is the check engine light; a vacuum leak often triggers this warning, signaling the need for immediate attention. Furthermore, these leaks can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, resulting in poor fuel efficiency and increased fuel consumption, which can strain your budget over time. In more severe cases, vacuum leaks may cause the engine to stall, particularly when idling or coming to a stop, posing safety risks. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to maintain the vehicle's health and performance, and regular maintenance checks can help identify and rectify vacuum leak problems before they escalate.

How urgent is it to address a vacuum leak in a 2017 Cadillac CTS to prevent potential safety risks and engine damage?

Addressing a vacuum leak in your 2017 Cadillac CTS is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is an urgent necessity to ensure both your safety and the longevity of your vehicle. A vacuum leak can severely compromise engine performance, leading to symptoms such as rough idling, stalling, or misfiring, which can make your car difficult to control and increase the risk of accidents. Moreover, if left unaddressed, a vacuum leak can cause extensive damage to critical engine components, including valves, pistons, and cylinders, resulting in costly repairs that could have been avoided. Additionally, vacuum leaks can disrupt the functioning of vital systems like brakes and emissions control, further endangering your safety on the road. By promptly addressing a vacuum leak, you not only enhance your vehicle's performance and efficiency but also safeguard against potential breakdowns and ensure a smoother driving experience. Therefore, it is imperative to prioritize the repair of any vacuum leaks to maintain the integrity of your Cadillac CTS and protect yourself and others while driving.

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