2016 Nissan Maxima Has A Vacuum Leak

Diagnosing Vacuum Leaks in Your 2016 Nissan Maxima: 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 2016 Nissan Maxima 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 2016 Nissan Maxima 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 2016 Nissan Maxima?

To effectively diagnose a vacuum leak in your 2016 Nissan Maxima, start with a thorough visual inspection of the engine components. Focus on the vacuum hoses, gaskets, and fittings, looking for any signs of wear, cracks, or damage. Pay attention to areas where oil or dirt may accumulate around the vacuum lines, as these can indicate potential leaks. Next, listen for any hissing noises while the engine is running; a pronounced hissing sound can signal a significant vacuum leak, similar to the sound of air escaping from a punctured tire. After that, carefully check all hoses and connectors for signs of brittleness or disconnections, and inspect critical areas such as the intake manifold gaskets, vacuum pump, and throttle body for any visible damage. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and address any vacuum leaks, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.

What are the common problems associated with vacuum leaks in a 2016 Nissan Maxima?

When diagnosing vacuum leaks in a 2016 Nissan Maxima, it's essential to recognize the common problems that can arise, as they significantly impact the vehicle's performance. One of the most noticeable symptoms is rough idling, where the engine may struggle to maintain a steady RPM, particularly at stops. This can be accompanied by an unusually high idle speed, often exceeding 2,000 RPMs, which indicates an imbalance in the air-fuel mixture. Additionally, a vacuum leak frequently triggers the check engine light, serving as a warning that the engine's air-fuel ratio is off, potentially leading to further complications. Misfires are another critical issue, as they occur when the engine fails to ignite fuel properly due to the altered mixture, resulting in decreased performance and drivability. Addressing these symptoms promptly is crucial for maintaining the optimal functioning of your Nissan Maxima, ensuring a smoother and more efficient driving experience.

How urgent is it to repair a vacuum leak in a 2016 Nissan Maxima?

Addressing a vacuum leak in your 2016 Nissan Maxima is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical maintenance task that demands immediate attention. Symptoms such as rough idling and poor acceleration are clear indicators that something is amiss, and ignoring these signs can lead to more severe problems down the line. A vacuum leak can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, causing the engine to run inefficiently, which may result in decreased fuel economy and increased emissions. Furthermore, if left unresolved, the leak can lead to more extensive engine damage, ultimately resulting in costly repairs that could have been avoided. By prioritizing the repair of a vacuum leak, you not only enhance your vehicle's performance but also safeguard against potential safety risks and financial burdens associated with neglecting this crucial issue. Therefore, if you notice any symptoms of a vacuum leak, it is essential to act swiftly to ensure the longevity and reliability of your Nissan Maxima.

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2016 Nissan Maxima Vacuum Leak Diagnosis & Repairs