2019 Kia Sportage Has A Vacuum Leak

Diagnosing Vacuum Leaks in Your 2019 Kia Sportage: 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 2019 Kia Sportage 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 2019 Kia Sportage 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 2019 Kia Sportage?

To effectively diagnose a vacuum leak in your 2019 Kia Sportage, start with a thorough visual inspection of the vacuum hoses. Look for any signs of wear, such as cracks or loose connections, which are often the culprits behind leaks. Next, listen 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 a leak. For a more hands-on approach, perform a spray test using carburetor cleaner or propane; simply spray around the hoses and intake manifold while observing the engine's RPM for any changes. If you want a more definitive method, consider conducting a smoke test, which allows you to visually see where smoke escapes, pinpointing the leak's location. Lastly, don’t forget to check for any diagnostic trouble codes using an OBD-II scanner, as these codes can provide additional insights into potential vacuum-related issues. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address vacuum leaks, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.

What are the common causes of a vacuum leak in a 2019 Kia Sportage?

Understanding the common causes of vacuum leaks in a 2019 Kia Sportage is essential for any DIY mechanic looking to maintain their vehicle's performance. One of the primary culprits is damaged or deteriorated vacuum hoses, which can wear out over time, 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 intake manifold to the engine. Cracked or damaged vacuum fittings are another frequent issue, as they can compromise the integrity of the vacuum system. Furthermore, a malfunctioning Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve can contribute to leaks, affecting engine efficiency. Lastly, a loose or damaged throttle body can also be a source of vacuum leaks, impacting the engine's air intake. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial for ensuring optimal engine performance and emissions control, making it important for DIY enthusiasts to be aware of these potential problems.

How urgent is it to repair a vacuum leak in a 2019 Kia Sportage to prevent safety risks and further damage?

Repairing a vacuum leak in your 2019 Kia Sportage is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is an urgent necessity that can significantly impact your vehicle's safety and performance. A vacuum leak can lead to a range of problems, including poor engine performance and rough idling, which can compromise your driving experience. More critically, if left unaddressed, a vacuum leak can cause the engine to run lean, potentially leading to overheating and severe damage to engine components. This situation is exacerbated by the fact that a vacuum leak can also impair the braking system, reducing the effectiveness of power brakes and making it harder to stop your vehicle in emergency situations. Furthermore, neglecting this issue can affect other vital systems, such as the transmission and emissions control, leading to even more extensive repairs down the line. Therefore, it is essential to address any signs of a vacuum leak promptly to ensure your Kia Sportage remains safe and reliable on the road.

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2019 Kia Sportage Vacuum Leak Symptoms & Repairs | RepairPal