2009 Nissan Murano Has A Vacuum Leak

Diagnosing Vacuum Leaks in Your 2009 Nissan Murano: Symptoms, Causes, and Repair Solutions

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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 2009 Nissan Murano 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 2009 Nissan Murano 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 2009 Nissan Murano?

When diagnosing a vacuum leak in a 2009 Nissan Murano, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest methods before progressing to more complex diagnostics. Start with a thorough visual inspection of the vacuum hoses under the hood, looking for any signs of damage such as cracks or loose connections. This initial step can often reveal obvious issues that are easy to fix. Next, listen for any hissing noises while the engine is running, as these sounds can indicate the presence of a leak. If the problem isn't immediately apparent, using a vacuum gauge can provide valuable insights; connect it to the intake manifold and check the reading at idle—any significant drop may suggest a leak. For a more hands-on approach, spraying soapy water on the hoses can help identify leaks, as bubbles will form at the source of any escaping air. If these methods do not yield results, consider performing a smoke test, which can visually highlight leaks by introducing smoke into the intake system. Finally, using an OBD-II scanner to check for engine codes can provide additional clues, as certain codes may point directly to vacuum-related issues. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can effectively identify and address vacuum leaks in your vehicle.

What are the common problems associated with vacuum leaks in a 2009 Nissan Murano?

When dealing with vacuum leaks in a 2009 Nissan Murano, several common problems can significantly impact vehicle performance. One of the most noticeable symptoms is rough idling, which occurs when the engine struggles to maintain a steady RPM while stationary, often felt at stoplights or when parked. This can be accompanied by decreased fuel efficiency, as the engine compensates for the excess air entering the system, leading to a leaner fuel mixture. Additionally, a vacuum leak can trigger the check engine light, alerting drivers to a potential issue that requires attention. Performance may also suffer, resulting in a loss of power as the engine cannot operate efficiently with an incorrect air-to-fuel ratio. In more severe cases, stalling can occur, particularly at low speeds or during stops, posing a safety risk. Addressing these vacuum leak issues promptly is crucial to maintaining engine health and ensuring smooth vehicle operation, making regular maintenance and inspections essential for any DIY enthusiast looking to keep their Murano in top shape.

How urgent is it to repair a vacuum leak in a 2009 Nissan Murano?

Repairing a vacuum leak in your 2009 Nissan Murano is not just a matter of convenience; it is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's overall health and performance. Ignoring a vacuum leak can lead to significant engine performance issues, such as rough idling and stalling, which can compromise your safety on the road. Additionally, a vacuum leak can cause the engine to run lean, resulting in decreased fuel efficiency and increased fuel costs over time. This inefficiency not only affects your wallet but can also lead to higher emissions, potentially causing your vehicle to fail emissions tests. Furthermore, neglecting a vacuum leak can lead to more severe engine damage, resulting in costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it is essential to address any symptoms of a vacuum leak promptly to ensure your Nissan Murano operates smoothly and efficiently, safeguarding both your investment and your safety.

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