2017 Jeep Compass Has A Vacuum Leak

Diagnosing Vacuum Leaks in Your 2017 Jeep Compass: 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 2017 Jeep Compass 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 2017 Jeep Compass 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 2017 Jeep Compass?

To effectively diagnose a vacuum leak in your 2017 Jeep Compass, 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 but can't pinpoint it, 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 suspected areas while the engine is running; a change in RPM will signal a leak. If these methods do not yield results, consider conducting a smoke test, which involves introducing smoke into the vacuum system to visually identify escaping smoke. Should you still be unable to locate the leak, professional diagnostic tools like a smoke machine or scan tool can help you accurately identify the issue. By following this structured approach, you can systematically diagnose and address vacuum leaks in your vehicle, ensuring optimal performance.

What are the common causes of a vacuum leak in a 2017 Jeep Compass?

When dealing with vacuum leaks in a 2017 Jeep Compass, it's crucial to understand the common problems that can arise within the vacuum system. One of the primary culprits is worn-out hoses, which can deteriorate over time due to exposure to heat and engine vibrations, leading to cracks or looseness that allow air to escape. Additionally, a faulty intake manifold gasket can create significant leaks, as it seals the manifold to the engine and any damage here can disrupt the vacuum pressure. Loose or damaged vacuum lines are another frequent issue; these lines can become disconnected or suffer from wear, resulting in air leaks that affect engine performance. Furthermore, a malfunctioning vacuum pump can contribute to leaks if it fails to maintain the necessary vacuum pressure. Lastly, broken or cracked vacuum fittings can compromise the integrity of the entire system, leading to further complications. By regularly inspecting these components and addressing any signs of wear or damage, DIYers can maintain their Jeep Compass's performance and prevent more severe engine issues down the line.

How urgent is it to address a vacuum leak in a 2017 Jeep Compass?

Addressing a vacuum leak in your 2017 Jeep Compass is more urgent than it may initially seem. While it might not present an immediate emergency, the implications of ignoring this issue can escalate quickly. A vacuum leak can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to rough idling and stalling, which not only affects your driving experience but can also compromise your safety on the road. Additionally, prolonged neglect can result in decreased fuel efficiency, causing you to spend more at the pump, and may even lead to significant engine damage over time. By taking prompt action to identify and repair a vacuum leak, you can ensure your vehicle operates smoothly and efficiently, ultimately prolonging its lifespan and maintaining its reliability. Therefore, if you notice any symptoms of a vacuum leak, it’s crucial to address them without delay to avoid more serious complications down the line.

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