The cost to fix a vacuum leak on a car typically ranges from $150 to $1,000, with the national average falling between $200 and $600. The final price depends heavily on two factors: the labor cost to locate the leak and the cost of the replacement part itself. Simple fixes, like replacing a small, accessible hose, are inexpensive. Complex leaks, such as one in the intake manifold gasket, require extensive labor and drive the cost up significantly.
The first and most critical step is diagnosis. Vacuum leaks can be tricky to find because they cause symptoms that mimic other problems, like a rough idle, high idle speed, or the illumination of the check engine light (often with codes like P0171 or P0174 indicating a lean air-fuel mixture). A mechanic might use a smoke machine to precisely pinpoint the leak source. This diagnostic time is usually billed at the shop's hourly rate, which can be $80 to $150 per hour.
Once found, the cost breaks down into parts and labor. Here’s a general cost breakdown based on common repair scenarios:
| Repair Scenario | Estimated Parts Cost | Estimated Labor Cost | Total Estimated Cost |
|---|
| Replacing a single vacuum hose | $20 - $80 | $75 - $150 | $95 - $230 |
| Replacing the PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve | $15 - $50 | $50 - $100 | $65 - $150 |
| Replacing intake manifold gasket | $50 - $200 | $200 - $600 | $250 - $800 |
| Replacing brake booster hose | $100 - $300 | $100 - $200 | $200 - $500 |
It's wise to get a few quotes. A small independent shop might be more affordable than a dealership for older cars. If you're mechanically inclined, replacing a visible cracked hose yourself can cost almost nothing but the part. However, misdiagnosis can lead to repeated repairs, so for complex issues, professional help is a worthwhile investment.
