2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Has A Vacuum Leak

Diagnosing Vacuum Leaks in Your 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander and Effective Repair Strategies

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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 Mitsubishi Outlander 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 Mitsubishi Outlander 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 Mitsubishi Outlander?

To effectively diagnose a vacuum leak in your 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander, begin with a thorough visual inspection of the engine bay. Look for any damaged or disconnected vacuum hoses, paying close attention to cracks, holes, or loose connections that could indicate a leak. Next, start the engine and listen for any hissing sounds, as these can be telltale signs of air escaping from a vacuum leak. If you have access to a vacuum gauge, connect it to the intake manifold to check the vacuum reading at idle and during engine revs; a reading lower than normal may suggest a leak. For a more hands-on approach, perform a spray test by using carburetor cleaner or propane around the vacuum hoses and intake manifold while the engine is running; a change in engine RPM can confirm the presence of a leak. If these methods do not yield results, consider using a smoke test, which involves injecting smoke into the intake system to visually identify escaping smoke from the leak. Should you still be unable to locate the source of the leak, it may be time to consult a professional mechanic equipped with specialized diagnostic tools. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently diagnose and address vacuum leaks in your vehicle.

What are the common problems associated with vacuum leaks in a 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander?

When dealing with vacuum leaks in a 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander, several common problems can significantly impact your vehicle's performance. One of the most noticeable symptoms is rough idling, which manifests as an uneven or unstable engine when the vehicle is stationary, particularly at stoplights or while parked. This can be accompanied by a decrease in overall engine performance, leading to reduced power, sluggish acceleration, and poor fuel efficiency. Additionally, a vacuum leak often triggers the check engine light, serving as an important warning that something is amiss. In more severe cases, the engine may stall unexpectedly, especially during low-speed maneuvers or when coming to a stop, which can be both dangerous and inconvenient. Lastly, you might experience hard starting issues, where the engine requires multiple attempts to turn over. Addressing these vacuum leaks promptly is crucial to prevent further engine damage and to maintain optimal vehicle performance. If you suspect a vacuum leak, it’s advisable to conduct a thorough inspection or consult a qualified mechanic for repairs.

How urgent is it to repair a vacuum leak in a 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander?

Repairing a vacuum leak in your 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. A vacuum leak can significantly impair engine performance, leading to symptoms such as rough idling, decreased fuel efficiency, and even stalling. These issues not only affect your driving experience but can also escalate into more severe problems if left unaddressed. Over time, the strain caused by a vacuum leak can damage other critical components of your vehicle, resulting in costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely intervention. By addressing a vacuum leak promptly, you can ensure the smooth operation and longevity of your Outlander, safeguarding its overall health and performance. Therefore, it is crucial to take action as soon as you suspect a vacuum leak to prevent further complications and maintain the reliability of your vehicle.

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