A high performance car requires proper and detailed maintenance to keep functioning well. And, without a doubt, BMW cars are high performance cars that require delicate care like you would take care of a toddler.
As a matter of fact, the manufacturers of BMW cars recommend that users use synthetic engine oil and octane-rich fuel to keep the car engine in its best position.
However, to get synthetic oil and fuel to the car engine, a vacuum system is put in place to regulate moisture-fuel mixture, create suctions, and oversee the operation of the car’s Heating, Ventilating, and Air conditioning (HVAC) system. A leak in a BMW car vacuum system would lead to performance issues, and eventually result in total engine knockdown if not fixed early.
This guide will help you with tips on the dangers of vacuum hose leaks, and how to identify them in your car.
The Consequences of a Vacuum Hose Leaks in Your BMW
As a BMW driver, your regular routine check on your car should go beyond tyre and oil change checks, but also encompass monitoring the condition of the vacuum system. A problematic vacuum system would not only cause a mechanical imbalance, but also cost you a lot of your hard earned money when your engine knocks. Here are some of the dangers of having a vacuum leak:
1. Engine overheating
The unintended gap in vacuum allows air to enter into the internal combustion systems, leading to engine overheating, and a damaged compression and timing issues.
2. Acceleration lags
Due to the fact that your engine is fuel starved and air filled, your car engine may stutter or take long to respond when you press down the accelerator. On rare occasions, you could find it impossible to get your car started at all.
How to Check for Vacuum Hose Leaks in Your BMW
Knowing where a vacuum hose leaks is in your can be sometimes tricky and fairly apparent, but some signs are quite visible.
1. Sound Inspection
You have a high chance of quickly picking up a vacuum hose leak issue from your BMW when you are attentive to the sound of your car. A small vacuum leak would make a hissing or squealing sound like that of a household vacuum. If the leak is bigger or there is probably a total disconnection, the sound heard will be similar to that of a suction noise that comes out of a shop vacuum.
2. Visual inspection
You can almost always detect a problem in your vacuum by visually inspecting connections in the vacuum system, hoses and lines to ensure tightness. While doing that, look out for cracks and disconnected lines, and make sure you are checking with reference to the labels under the hood and owner’s manual.
3. Dashboard Warning
BMW’s engine dashboards are one of the best ways to get a prompt to check your vacuum system for default. The car check engine light turning on is your cue to get your vacuum checked as it can be caused by excess air flowing into the engine.
4. Smoke Test
While it is advisable to be familiar with knowing what to check in your car and how to resolve car problems, some solutions are best handled by professional mechanics. The smoke test is mainly performed by auto mechanics. A smoke machine is used to send white smoke down the vacuum hose to see if it will find its way out or not.
5. Spray test
Similar to the smoke test on car vacuum systems, the spray test is best performed by experienced auto shops by spraying water on the possible leaky area. If the water gets sucked into the engine, then there’s a vacuum hose leak.
Where To Get Your Vacuum Hole Leaks Checked and Replaced
It is true that there are lots of auto shops around the country, but not all auto shops have the interest of the car owners and the distinctiveness of BMW cars. So, in your bid to find a place to get your vacuum hose leaks checked, it is expedient you look for one that ticks all boxes.
At Dell’s Service Center, we have been providing exquisite services to our customers from Green Bay, Manitowoc, and Sturgeon Bay, WI to optimum satisfaction for many years. Our state-of-art equipment, experienced Mechanics, and customer-focused approach makes us stand out. With us, you can be sure your car will be properly taken care of.