2019 Cadillac CTS Has A Vacuum Leak

Diagnosing Vacuum Leaks in Your 2019 Cadillac CTS: Symptoms, Causes, and Repair Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2019 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 2019 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 2019 Cadillac CTS?

To effectively diagnose a vacuum leak in your 2019 Cadillac CTS, start with a thorough visual inspection of the vacuum hoses and connections. Look for any signs of wear, such as cracks or loose fittings, which are common culprits for leaks. Once you've completed the visual check, start the engine and listen carefully for any hissing sounds that could indicate escaping air. If you suspect a leak but can't pinpoint it, using a smoke machine can be particularly helpful; it introduces smoke into the vacuum system, allowing you to see where it escapes. Alternatively, you can spray a mixture of soapy water on the hoses while the engine runs; any bubbling will reveal the location of a leak. For a more precise assessment, consider using a vacuum gauge to measure the vacuum levels—lower than normal readings can confirm a leak. Finally, don’t forget to scan for error codes with an OBD-II scanner, as these codes can provide additional insights into potential issues within the vacuum system. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently diagnose and address any vacuum leaks in your vehicle.

What are the common problems associated with vacuum leaks in a 2019 Cadillac CTS?

When diagnosing vacuum leaks in a 2019 Cadillac CTS, it's essential to recognize the common problems that can arise. One of the most noticeable symptoms is rough idling, where the engine may shake or run unevenly when the vehicle is stationary, indicating an imbalance in the air-fuel mixture. This can lead to decreased engine performance, manifesting as reduced power and sluggish acceleration, which can be frustrating for drivers. Additionally, a vacuum leak often triggers the check engine light, serving as a warning that something is amiss and requires immediate attention. Fuel efficiency can also suffer, as the improper air-fuel mixture can lead to increased fuel consumption, impacting your wallet at the pump. In more severe cases, vacuum leaks can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly, particularly at low speeds or during idling, posing safety risks. Addressing these issues promptly through regular maintenance and inspections is crucial to maintaining the vehicle's performance and preventing further damage.

How urgent is it to address a vacuum leak in a 2019 Cadillac CTS to prevent safety risks and further damage?

Addressing a vacuum leak in your 2019 Cadillac CTS is not just a matter of performance; it is a pressing safety concern that requires immediate attention. A vacuum leak can significantly impair engine performance, leading to symptoms like rough idling and stalling, which can be dangerous while driving. Moreover, the integrity of your braking system may be compromised, increasing the risk of accidents due to inefficient stopping power. Ignoring these symptoms can also result in higher fuel consumption and emissions, which not only affects your budget but also has environmental implications. Over time, the repercussions of a vacuum leak can escalate, potentially causing damage to other vital components of your vehicle, leading to costly repairs that could have been avoided. Therefore, it is crucial to address any signs of a vacuum leak promptly to ensure your safety on the road and maintain the longevity of your Cadillac CTS.

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