2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport Has A Vacuum Leak

Diagnosing Vacuum Leaks in Your 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport and Effective Repair Strategies

Find Repair Location
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 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 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 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 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.

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 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport?

To effectively diagnose a vacuum leak in your 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, start with a thorough visual inspection of the vacuum hoses. Look for any signs of wear, such as cracks or loose connections, which are common culprits. Next, listen carefully for any hissing sounds while the engine is running, as these can indicate escaping air. If you have access to a vacuum gauge, connect it to the intake manifold to check for fluctuations in vacuum pressure, which can signal a leak. Another practical method is to spray soapy water on the hoses and connections; if bubbles form, you’ve found the leak. For a more advanced approach, consider performing a smoke test, where smoke is introduced into the vacuum system to visually identify leaks. Lastly, if your check engine light is illuminated, using an OBD-II scanner can help you retrieve diagnostic trouble codes that may point to vacuum system issues. By following these steps, you can systematically identify and address any vacuum leaks in your vehicle, ensuring optimal performance.

What are the common problems associated with vacuum leaks in a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport?

When it comes to vacuum leaks in a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, several common problems can significantly affect the vehicle's performance. One of the most noticeable symptoms is rough idling, where the engine may run unevenly when the car is stationary, leading to an erratic driving experience. Additionally, vacuum leaks can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, resulting in decreased fuel efficiency and increased fuel consumption, which can strain your budget over time. Drivers may also encounter the check engine light illuminating on the dashboard, a clear indication that something is amiss and requires attention. Furthermore, a vacuum leak can lead to a loss of power or acceleration, making it difficult to drive the vehicle smoothly. In more severe cases, these leaks can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly while driving, posing a serious safety risk. To avoid these issues, it is crucial to address vacuum leaks promptly and conduct regular maintenance and inspections, ensuring your Hyundai Santa Fe Sport operates efficiently and safely.

How urgent is it to address the vacuum leak in a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport?

Addressing a vacuum leak in your 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical maintenance task that demands immediate attention. A vacuum leak can severely compromise engine performance, leading to symptoms such as rough idling, stalling, and a noticeable drop in fuel efficiency. These issues not only make your driving experience less enjoyable but can also pose safety risks if the engine fails unexpectedly while on the road. Furthermore, neglecting a vacuum leak can result in cascading damage to other vital components, including the oxygen sensors and catalytic converter, which can lead to even more expensive repairs down the line. Additionally, a vacuum leak often triggers the check engine light, signaling that your vehicle requires urgent attention. By addressing this issue promptly, you can prevent further damage, enhance your vehicle's performance, and ultimately save money on repairs, making it essential to act quickly when you suspect a vacuum leak.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.

2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport Vacuum Leak Causes & Repairs