2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG Has A Vacuum Leak

Diagnosing Vacuum Leaks in Your 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG: 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 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG 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 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG 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 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG?

To effectively diagnose a vacuum leak in a 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that prioritizes simpler methods before progressing to more complex solutions. Begin with a thorough visual inspection of the engine bay, focusing on vacuum hoses and connectors for any signs of damage or disconnection. This initial step can often reveal obvious issues that are easy to fix. Next, start the engine and listen for any hissing noises, which can indicate air escaping from a leak. If the source of the leak remains elusive, employing a smoke machine can be particularly effective; it introduces smoke into the vacuum system, allowing you to visually identify leaks as the smoke escapes. Additionally, pay attention to the engine's performance—symptoms like rough idling or stalling can signal a vacuum leak. Utilizing a diagnostic scanner to check for any trouble codes related to the vacuum system can provide further insights. Finally, measuring vacuum levels with a gauge can help confirm the presence of a leak if you notice a significant drop in pressure. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently diagnose and address vacuum leaks, ensuring your vehicle operates at its best.

What are the common causes of a vacuum leak in a 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG?

When diagnosing a vacuum leak in your 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG, it's crucial to understand the common problems that can arise within the vehicle's vacuum system. One of the primary culprits is worn or damaged vacuum hoses, which can deteriorate over time due to heat and exposure, leading to air leaks that affect engine performance. Additionally, a faulty intake manifold gasket can compromise the seal between the manifold and the engine, allowing unmetered air to enter the system. It's also important to check for loose or cracked vacuum fittings, as these can easily escape air and disrupt the vacuum pressure. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve, which can fail to regulate airflow properly, resulting in a vacuum leak. Lastly, a leaking brake booster can create significant vacuum loss, impacting both braking performance and engine efficiency. By regularly inspecting these components and addressing any signs of wear or damage, you can maintain the optimal performance of your CLA45 AMG and prevent further complications.

How urgent is it to repair a vacuum leak in a 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG to avoid safety risks and engine damage?

Repairing a vacuum leak in your 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG is not just a maintenance task; it is an urgent necessity to ensure your vehicle's safety and performance. A vacuum leak can significantly impair engine function, leading to symptoms such as rough idling, stalling, or misfiring, which can compromise your driving experience and safety on the road. If left unaddressed, these issues can escalate, resulting in severe engine damage that may require costly repairs or even complete engine failure. The urgency of fixing a vacuum leak cannot be overstated, as timely intervention not only preserves the efficiency of your engine but also safeguards against potential hazards that could arise from compromised vehicle performance. Therefore, if you suspect a vacuum leak, it is crucial to act swiftly to maintain the integrity of your vehicle and ensure a safe driving experience.

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