2015 Volvo S60 Has A Vacuum Leak

Diagnosing Vacuum Leaks in Your 2015 Volvo S60: 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 2015 Volvo S60 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 2015 Volvo S60 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 2015 Volvo S60?

To effectively diagnose a vacuum leak in your 2015 Volvo S60, begin with a thorough visual inspection of all hoses and connections, paying close attention to the intake manifold for any signs of wear, such as cracks or disconnections. This initial step is crucial as it can often reveal obvious issues that are easy to fix. Next, consider utilizing a smoke machine, which can be connected to the intake system; the smoke will help you visually identify any leaks that may not be immediately apparent. Additionally, be vigilant for common symptoms associated with vacuum leaks, including irregular idle speeds, poor fuel efficiency, and an illuminated check engine light, as these can provide valuable clues about the underlying problem. Following this, employ a vacuum tester to systematically check for leaks while the engine is running, observing the readings closely for any irregularities. Lastly, if your vehicle's onboard diagnostics have flagged any trouble codes, use these as a guide to narrow down the potential sources of the leak. By adhering to this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address vacuum leaks, ensuring your Volvo S60 operates at its best.

What are the common causes and symptoms of a vacuum leak in a 2015 Volvo S60?

When addressing a vacuum leak in a 2015 Volvo S60, it's crucial to recognize the common problems that can arise, as well as the symptoms that may indicate an issue. A vacuum leak often stems from damaged rubber hoses, faulty intake manifold gaskets, or issues with the throttle body and PCV system. These components are frequently the source of leaks, leading to performance issues. Symptoms to watch for include a high or irregular idle speed, which is one of the most noticeable signs, along with rough idling and decreased engine performance. Additionally, you may hear hissing sounds or notice fluctuating idle speeds, which can signal a leak. Increased fuel consumption and engine stalling are also red flags that should not be ignored. Understanding these common problems and symptoms can empower you to diagnose the issue effectively, allowing for timely repairs that can prevent further damage and maintain your vehicle's performance. If you suspect a vacuum leak, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable for an accurate diagnosis and repair.

How urgent is it to repair a vacuum leak in a 2015 Volvo S60?

Addressing a vacuum leak in your 2015 Volvo S60 is not just a matter of convenience; it is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's performance and safety. Ignoring the symptoms of a vacuum leak, such as erratic idle speeds or decreased fuel efficiency, can lead to more severe engine problems and increased fuel consumption. The urgency of repairs is heightened by the fact that even minor leaks can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, resulting in poor engine performance and potentially causing further damage over time. Additionally, the cost of repairs can escalate significantly if the issue is allowed to worsen, transforming a simple fix, like replacing a vacuum hose, into a more complex and expensive repair. Therefore, it is essential to address any signs of a vacuum leak promptly to ensure your vehicle operates efficiently and to avoid the risk of incurring higher repair costs in the future. Prioritizing these repairs not only safeguards your vehicle's integrity but also enhances your driving experience.

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