2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG Has A Vacuum Leak

Diagnosing Vacuum Leaks in Your 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG and Effective Repair Strategies

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG?

To effectively diagnose a vacuum leak in your 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG, begin with a thorough visual inspection of the engine bay. Look for any visible signs of wear, damage, or disconnection in the vacuum hoses and components, as these are often the culprits behind leaks. Next, listen carefully for any hissing noises emanating from the engine area, which can indicate escaping air. If these initial checks do not reveal the issue, consider performing a smoke test, a method that can help you pinpoint the exact location of the leak by introducing smoke into the intake system. Alternatively, you can use a simple soapy water solution; spray it on the vacuum hoses and connections, and watch for bubbles that signal a leak. If the problem persists and remains elusive, utilizing professional diagnostic tools can provide a deeper analysis of the engine and its systems, helping you identify any underlying issues. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently diagnose and address vacuum leaks, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently.

What are the common problems associated with vacuum leaks in a 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG?

When tackling vacuum leaks in a 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG, it's essential to understand the common problems that can arise. One of the primary culprits is cracked vacuum hoses, which can deteriorate over time due to heat and wear, leading to air leaks that disrupt the engine's air-fuel mixture. Additionally, leaking gaskets and seals, particularly around the intake manifold and throttle body, can also contribute to vacuum leaks, resulting in poor engine performance and increased fuel consumption. Bad actuators and valves may further complicate the issue, as they can fail to maintain proper pressure within the system. Identifying these leaks can be a challenge, as the sources are often hidden or difficult to access, making thorough inspection and testing crucial. By being aware of these common problems, DIYers can better diagnose and address vacuum leaks, ensuring their CLS63 AMG runs smoothly and efficiently.

How urgent is it to address a vacuum leak in a 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG?

Addressing a vacuum leak in your 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical maintenance task that requires immediate attention. Ignoring a vacuum leak can lead to a cascade of problems, including diminished engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and the triggering of the check engine light. The engine control unit relies on precise vacuum levels to function optimally, and any disruption can result in poor acceleration and erratic idling. Moreover, allowing air to enter the engine unchecked can exacerbate wear and tear on engine components, leading to costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it is essential to diagnose and fix any vacuum leaks as soon as they are detected to maintain the vehicle's performance and longevity, ensuring a safe and reliable driving experience.

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2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG Vacuum Leak Causes & Repairs