2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 Has A Vacuum Leak

Diagnosing Vacuum Leaks in Your 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 and Effective Repair Strategies

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 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 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 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

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 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA250?

To effectively diagnose a vacuum leak in your 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA250, start with a thorough visual inspection of all vacuum hoses and lines. Look for any signs of wear, such as cracks or disconnections, as these are common culprits for leaks. If the issue isn't immediately apparent, consider performing a smoke test, which involves introducing smoke into the intake system to reveal hidden leaks. Pay attention to any unusual engine noises, particularly hissing sounds, which can indicate escaping air. Additionally, check for any diagnostic trouble codes using an OBD-II scanner; codes like P1190 can point directly to vacuum leak issues. If these methods do not yield results or if you feel uncertain about your findings, it may be wise to consult a professional mechanic for a more in-depth inspection. By following these steps, you can systematically identify and address vacuum leaks, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.

What are the common causes and symptoms of a vacuum leak in a 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA250?

When diagnosing a vacuum leak in a 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA250, it's important to recognize the common problems that can arise. One prevalent cause is dry-rotted vacuum hoses, which can deteriorate over time and lead to air leaks. Additionally, leaking gaskets and seals can compromise the integrity of the vacuum system, allowing unwanted air to enter the engine. Gearbox leaks are another issue that many CLA250 owners report, contributing to the overall vacuum leak problem. Symptoms of a vacuum leak often manifest as a high engine idle RPM, which can indicate that the engine is struggling to maintain proper air-fuel ratios. You may also hear hissing sounds from the engine bay, signaling that air is escaping through a leak. Furthermore, the Check Engine Light may illuminate, particularly if a P1190 code is triggered, alerting you to the issue. It's essential to address these symptoms promptly, as even small leaks can impact various components, including door locks and the power brake booster, potentially leading to more significant problems down the line. If you suspect a vacuum leak, thorough inspection and timely repairs are crucial to maintaining your vehicle's performance.

How urgent is it to address a vacuum leak in a 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA250?

Addressing a vacuum leak in your 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 is not just a matter of convenience; it is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's overall performance and safety. Ignoring a vacuum leak can lead to significant issues, including decreased engine efficiency and power, which can compromise your driving experience. Additionally, a vacuum leak can trigger the check engine light, indicating that your vehicle requires immediate attention. The urgency escalates when considering that a malfunctioning vacuum system can affect braking efficiency, as the vacuum pump is essential for the power brake booster. This could pose serious safety risks while driving. Therefore, if you notice symptoms such as rough idling or decreased acceleration, it is advisable to diagnose and repair the leak as soon as possible. Taking prompt action not only helps prevent further damage to your engine and other components but also ensures that your CLA250 remains safe and reliable on the road. For those considering a DIY approach, understanding the implications of a vacuum leak is vital to making informed decisions about repairs.

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