2016 Chevrolet City Express Has A Vacuum Leak

Diagnosing Vacuum Leaks in Your 2016 Chevrolet City Express and Effective Repair Strategies

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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 2016 Chevrolet City Express 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 2016 Chevrolet City Express 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 2016 Chevrolet City Express?

To effectively diagnose a vacuum leak in your 2016 Chevrolet City Express, start with a thorough visual inspection of the engine components. Check vacuum hoses, gaskets, and fittings for any signs of cracks, wear, or damage, as these are common culprits for leaks. Pay attention to any oil or dirt accumulation around these areas, which can indicate a problem. Next, listen carefully for any whistling or hissing noises while the engine is running, as these sounds often signal a vacuum leak. If you suspect a leak but cannot locate it, consider using methods such as soapy water or professional smoke tests, which can help reveal the exact source of the leak. By following these diagnostic steps, you can efficiently identify and address vacuum leaks, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.

What are the common causes and symptoms of a vacuum leak in a 2016 Chevrolet City Express?

When diagnosing a vacuum leak in a 2016 Chevrolet City Express, it's essential to understand the common problems that can arise. One of the primary culprits is dry-rotted vacuum hoses, which can become brittle over time, leading to cracks and leaks. Additionally, issues with the intake hose, such as cracks or breaks in the rubber tubes connected to the intake manifold, can also contribute to vacuum leaks. Faulty components like the PCV valve, MAF sensor, or fuel pump may further exacerbate the situation, often triggering error codes like P0171 and P0174. Symptoms of a vacuum leak include a rough idle, which can significantly affect engine performance, and poor fuel economy, as the engine struggles to maintain the correct air-fuel mixture. Drivers may also notice the check engine light illuminating on the dashboard, indicating a potential issue. Lastly, a lean running condition can develop, where the engine receives too much air relative to fuel, further impacting performance. By being aware of these common causes and symptoms, DIYers can take proactive steps to diagnose and resolve vacuum leaks, ensuring their Chevrolet City Express runs smoothly.

How urgent is it to repair a vacuum leak in a 2016 Chevrolet City Express?

Addressing a vacuum leak in your 2016 Chevrolet City Express is not just a matter of convenience; it is a pressing concern that can significantly impact your vehicle's performance and longevity. Ignoring the symptoms of a vacuum leak can lead to rough idling, stalling, and hesitation during acceleration, which not only makes driving less enjoyable but can also pose safety risks on the road. Furthermore, a vacuum leak can cause your engine to run lean, resulting in decreased fuel efficiency and increased fuel costs. This inefficiency can also strain your emissions control systems, potentially leading to higher emissions that harm the environment and may result in failing emissions tests. Over time, neglecting a vacuum leak can lead to severe damage to engine components, jeopardizing the reliability of your vehicle and leading to costly repairs. Therefore, it is crucial to address any signs of a vacuum leak promptly to ensure your Chevrolet City Express operates smoothly and efficiently.

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