2014 INFINITI QX50 Has A Vacuum Leak

Diagnosing Vacuum Leaks in Your 2014 INFINITI QX50: Symptoms, Causes, and Repair Solutions

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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 2014 INFINITI QX50 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 2014 INFINITI QX50 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 2014 INFINITI QX50?

To effectively diagnose a vacuum leak in your 2014 INFINITI QX50, 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 are common culprits of leaks. 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 low pressure or fluctuations, which can further confirm the presence of a leak. For a more hands-on approach, consider performing a spray test by applying carburetor cleaner or propane around suspected areas; a change in engine RPM will signal a leak. If you want a more definitive method, a smoke test can visually reveal the leak's location by introducing smoke into the vacuum system. Finally, don’t forget to check for any diagnostic trouble codes using an OBD-II scanner, as these can provide additional insights into the vacuum system's health. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address vacuum leaks, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.

What are the common causes of vacuum leaks in a 2014 INFINITI QX50?

When dealing with vacuum leaks in a 2014 INFINITI QX50, it's crucial to understand the common problems that can arise. One of the primary culprits is worn out vacuum hoses, which can deteriorate over time, leading to cracks or looseness that allow air to escape. Additionally, a faulty intake manifold gasket can create significant leaks, impacting engine performance. It's also important to check for loose or damaged vacuum fittings, as improper connections can exacerbate the issue. Cracked or damaged vacuum lines are another frequent source of leaks, which can hinder the vehicle's efficiency. Lastly, a malfunctioning Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve can contribute to vacuum leaks, affecting the engine's overall operation. Regular inspection and maintenance of these components can help prevent vacuum leaks, ensuring your QX50 runs smoothly and efficiently.

How urgent is it to repair the vacuum leak in a 2014 INFINITI QX50, considering the potential safety risks and engine damage?

When dealing with a vacuum leak in a 2014 INFINITI QX50, the urgency of repair cannot be overstated due to the significant safety risks and potential engine damage involved. A vacuum leak can severely compromise engine performance, leading to difficulties in acceleration and deceleration, which are critical during high-stakes driving situations like merging onto highways. Moreover, the integrity of essential safety systems, such as power brakes and airbags, may also be jeopardized, putting both the driver and passengers at risk. Beyond immediate safety concerns, neglecting a vacuum leak can result in long-term engine damage. The excess air entering the engine can cause it to run lean, leading to overheating and potential harm to internal components. Additionally, symptoms like rough idling, misfiring, or stalling can escalate into more severe issues, resulting in costly repairs. Therefore, addressing a vacuum leak promptly is crucial not only for maintaining the vehicle's performance but also for ensuring the safety of everyone on the road.

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2014 INFINITI QX50 Vacuum Leak: Causes & Repair Costs