2013 INFINITI M56 Has A Vacuum Leak

Diagnosing Vacuum Leaks in Your 2013 INFINITI M56: Symptoms, Causes, and Repair Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 INFINITI M56 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 INFINITI M56 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 2013 INFINITI M56?

To effectively diagnose a vacuum leak in your 2013 INFINITI M56, begin with a thorough visual inspection of all vacuum hoses and connections. Look for any signs of wear, such as cracks or loose fittings, which are common culprits for leaks. Next, start the engine and listen carefully for any hissing sounds that could indicate escaping air. If you suspect a leak, using a vacuum gauge can provide valuable insights; connect it to the intake manifold and monitor for fluctuations in pressure. For a more hands-on approach, perform a spray test by applying carburetor cleaner or propane around the hoses while the engine runs; a change in RPM will signal a leak. If these methods do not yield results, consider a smoke test, which involves introducing smoke into the intake system to visually identify leaks. Lastly, don’t forget to check for any trouble codes using an OBD-II scanner, as these can provide additional clues about potential vacuum issues. By following these steps, you can systematically diagnose and address vacuum leaks, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.

What are the common causes and symptoms of a vacuum leak in a 2013 INFINITI M56?

Understanding the common problems associated with vacuum leaks in a 2013 INFINITI M56 is crucial for any DIY enthusiast aiming to maintain their vehicle's performance. One of the primary causes of a vacuum leak is damaged or deteriorated vacuum hoses, which can crack or become loose over time, allowing air to escape. Additionally, a faulty intake manifold gasket can lead to significant leaks, as can cracked or damaged vacuum fittings. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning throttle body, where a faulty gasket or seal may disrupt the vacuum system. Symptoms of these leaks often manifest as rough idling, decreased engine performance, and unusual hissing or whistling noises from the engine bay. Furthermore, the check engine light may illuminate, signaling a disruption in the engine's vacuum system. By being aware of these common causes and symptoms, DIYers can take proactive steps to diagnose and address vacuum leaks, ensuring their INFINITI M56 runs smoothly and efficiently.

How urgent is it to address a vacuum leak in a 2013 INFINITI M56?

Addressing a vacuum leak in your 2013 INFINITI M56 is a matter of urgency that should not be overlooked. While it may not seem like an immediate emergency, the implications of ignoring a vacuum leak can escalate quickly, leading to rough idling, stalling, and decreased fuel efficiency. Over time, these issues can contribute to more severe engine damage, resulting in costly repairs that could have been avoided with prompt attention. For DIY enthusiasts, understanding the signs of a vacuum leak—such as unusual engine sounds or fluctuating RPMs—can empower you to take action before the problem worsens. Regularly inspecting hoses and connections for wear and tear can help maintain your vehicle's performance and reliability. Ultimately, addressing a vacuum leak swiftly not only preserves the health of your INFINITI M56 but also enhances your driving experience, making it a crucial task for any car owner.

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