2016 Nissan Murano Has A Vacuum Leak

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

To effectively diagnose a vacuum leak in your 2016 Nissan Murano, start with a thorough visual inspection of the vacuum hoses. Look for any signs of wear, such as cracks, holes, or loose connections that could compromise the system. Next, listen for any hissing sounds while the engine is running, as these can indicate escaping air. If you have access to a vacuum gauge, connect it to the intake manifold to check for fluctuations or low pressure, which are telltale signs of a leak. For a more hands-on approach, perform a spray test by applying carburetor cleaner or propane around the hoses and connections; a change in engine RPM will signal a leak. If you want a more definitive method, consider conducting a smoke test, which allows you to visually pinpoint the leak's location. Finally, don’t forget to check for any trouble codes using an OBD-II scanner, as these can provide additional insights into potential vacuum issues. By following these steps, you can systematically identify and address any vacuum leaks in your vehicle, ensuring optimal performance.

What are the common causes of a vacuum leak in a 2016 Nissan Murano?

Understanding the common causes of a vacuum leak in your 2016 Nissan Murano is crucial for effective DIY maintenance. One of the primary culprits is worn or damaged vacuum hoses, which can deteriorate over time, leading to cracks or looseness that allow air to escape. Additionally, a faulty intake manifold gasket can create a significant leak, as it is responsible for sealing the manifold to the engine. Cracked or damaged vacuum fittings are another frequent issue, as they can compromise the integrity of the vacuum system. Furthermore, a malfunctioning throttle body gasket may not seal properly, resulting in unwanted air intake. Lastly, loose or damaged intake manifold bolts can also contribute to vacuum leaks, as they may fail to hold the manifold securely in place. By regularly inspecting these components and addressing any signs of wear or damage, you can maintain optimal engine performance and prevent further complications.

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

Repairing a vacuum leak in a 2016 Nissan Murano is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. A vacuum leak can significantly impact your vehicle's performance, leading to symptoms such as rough idling, stalling, and decreased power, which can make driving unsafe. Additionally, a compromised vacuum system can result in poor fuel economy, costing you more at the pump. If left unaddressed, a vacuum leak can cause further damage to other engine components, leading to more extensive and costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it is crucial to diagnose and repair any vacuum leaks as soon as they are detected. While some may consider postponing repairs, doing so can jeopardize the overall health of your engine and diminish your vehicle's reliability. For the best results, consulting a professional mechanic is recommended to ensure the issue is resolved effectively, allowing you to maintain optimal performance and safety on the road.

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