2008 INFINITI M35 Has A Vacuum Leak

Diagnosing Vacuum Leaks in Your 2008 INFINITI M35: Symptoms, Causes, and Repair Solutions

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2008 INFINITI M35 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 2008 INFINITI M35 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 2008 INFINITI M35?

To effectively diagnose a vacuum leak in your 2008 INFINITI M35, start with a thorough visual inspection of all vacuum hoses and connections. Look for any signs of wear, such as cracks or loose fittings, which could indicate a potential leak. Next, listen for any hissing sounds while the engine is running, as these can be telltale signs of escaping air. If you want a more precise measurement, connect a vacuum gauge to the intake manifold; fluctuations or low readings can confirm the presence of a leak. For a practical approach, perform a spray test using carburetor cleaner or propane around suspected areas; a change in engine RPM will signal a leak. If you have access to a smoke machine, this can provide a clear visual indication of leaks by showing smoke escaping from damaged areas. Finally, don’t forget to check for any diagnostic trouble codes using an OBD-II scanner, as these can offer additional insights into the issue. By following these steps in a systematic manner, you can efficiently identify and address any vacuum leaks in your vehicle.

What are the common causes of a vacuum leak in a 2008 INFINITI M35?

Understanding the common causes of a vacuum leak in a 2008 INFINITI M35 is essential for any DIY mechanic looking to maintain their vehicle's performance. One of the primary culprits is worn-out hoses, which can deteriorate over time due to exposure to heat and chemicals, leading to cracks or looseness that allow air to escape. Additionally, a faulty intake manifold gasket can create a significant vacuum leak, as it seals the manifold to the engine and any damage here can disrupt the air-fuel mixture. Loose or damaged vacuum lines are another frequent issue; these lines can become disconnected or suffer from wear, resulting in leaks that affect engine performance. Furthermore, a malfunctioning vacuum pump can also contribute to this problem, as it is responsible for creating the necessary vacuum pressure. Lastly, cracked or damaged vacuum fittings can compromise the integrity of the system, leading to leaks. Regular inspections and timely repairs of these components can help prevent vacuum leaks, ensuring your INFINITI M35 runs smoothly and efficiently.

How urgent is it to repair a vacuum leak in a 2008 INFINITI M35, considering the potential safety risks and engine damage?

When considering the urgency of repairing a vacuum leak in a 2008 INFINITI M35, it is essential to recognize the immediate safety risks and long-term engine damage that can arise from neglecting this issue. A vacuum leak can significantly impair engine performance, leading to reduced drivability and potentially dangerous situations on the road, particularly during critical maneuvers like acceleration or braking. Furthermore, if left unaddressed, a vacuum leak can create a lean air-fuel mixture, causing the engine to overheat and suffer from severe damage over time, which can result in costly repairs. Additionally, the presence of a vacuum leak can negatively impact fuel efficiency, forcing the engine to work harder and increasing fuel consumption, which translates to higher expenses at the gas pump. Lastly, timely repairs are crucial for maintaining compliance with emissions regulations, as a vacuum leak can disrupt emission control systems and elevate harmful emissions. Therefore, addressing a vacuum leak promptly is vital not only for your vehicle's performance and longevity but also for ensuring your safety and environmental responsibility.

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.