2018 Volvo V90 Has A Vacuum Leak

Diagnosing Vacuum Leaks in Your 2018 Volvo V90: 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 2018 Volvo V90 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 2018 Volvo V90 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 2018 Volvo V90?

To effectively diagnose a vacuum leak in your 2018 Volvo V90, start with a thorough visual inspection of the vacuum hoses and connections. Look for any signs of wear, such as cracks or loose fittings, which can often be the source of leaks. Next, listen for any hissing noises while the engine is running, as these sounds can indicate escaping air. If the issue isn't immediately apparent, consider using a smoke machine to introduce smoke into the vacuum system; this method allows you to visually identify where the smoke escapes, pinpointing the leak. Alternatively, you can spray a soapy water solution on the hoses and connections; if bubbles form, it’s a clear sign of a leak. Additionally, checking the vacuum levels with a gauge can provide insight, as lower than normal readings may suggest a problem. If these methods do not yield results, utilizing professional diagnostic tools can help you accurately identify the issue. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently diagnose and address any vacuum leaks, ensuring your vehicle operates at its best.

What are the common causes and symptoms of a vacuum leak in a 2018 Volvo V90?

Understanding the common problems related to vacuum leaks in a 2018 Volvo V90 is essential for any DIY enthusiast aiming to maintain their vehicle's performance. One of the primary causes of a vacuum leak is worn-out hoses, which can develop cracks or holes over time due to exposure to heat and engine vibrations. Additionally, a faulty vacuum pump may fail to maintain the necessary vacuum pressure, leading to performance issues. Another critical area to inspect is the intake manifold gasket; if it is damaged or worn, it can create a significant leak. Loose or disconnected vacuum lines are also frequent culprits that can easily be overlooked. Symptoms of a vacuum leak include a check engine light activation, rough idling, noticeable loss of power, and even a hissing noise emanating from the engine bay. Furthermore, drivers may experience poor fuel efficiency as the engine struggles to operate optimally. By being aware of these common causes and symptoms, DIYers can take proactive steps to diagnose and address vacuum leaks, ensuring their Volvo V90 runs smoothly and efficiently.

How urgent is it to repair a vacuum leak in a 2018 Volvo V90?

Repairing a vacuum leak in your 2018 Volvo V90 should be treated as a priority due to the significant impact it can have on your vehicle's performance and longevity. A vacuum leak can lead to rough idling, stalling, and a noticeable decrease in power, which not only affects your driving experience but can also pose safety risks. Additionally, ignoring this issue can result in decreased fuel efficiency, causing you to spend more on gas as the engine struggles to maintain optimal performance. Furthermore, a vacuum leak can disrupt the emissions system, potentially leading to increased emissions that may cause your vehicle to fail emissions tests. This not only affects the environment but could also result in costly fines or repairs. Lastly, delaying the repair can put undue strain on other engine components, leading to more extensive and expensive repairs down the line. Therefore, addressing a vacuum leak promptly is essential for maintaining your Volvo's performance, efficiency, and overall health.

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