Car turbocharger hose

How to detect the air intake system failure

Inspection of the air intake system is performed in several stages. First check the integrity of the intake line, and then its individual components performance. The diagnostic procedure method is chosen by specialists depending on the failure symptoms.

Compressed air and a smoke machine are usually used at a service station to detect leakage. At an independent check, you can use a soap solution and compressed air.

Sensors and regulators are assessed with a multimeter. First, connect the gauge to the corresponding terminals of the tested device and measure its resistance. If it does not match the nominal value, then there is a breakage in the part winding. Then, use the multimeter to measure the voltage at the terminals of the power wire and compare the obtained data with the values ​​indicated in the car technical documentation.

The valves and flaps operation is usually inspected under conditions simulating actual performance.

You may identify that the air intake system needs a diagnosis by the following signs:

• increase in the fuel consumption;
• unstable engine operation at idle and during acceleration;
• black smoke from the exhaust pipe;
• loss of engine power;
• deterioration of the car dynamic performance;
• Check Engine light flashes on the dashboard;
• abnormal sounds from the engine compartment during the power unit operation;
• frequent engine overheating.

Causes of the air intake system failures

Many air intake system failures are caused by contamination: delayed air filter replacement or its poor quality, as well as poor tightness of the pipeline lead to the ingress of dust and moisture inside the intake line. The deposit accumulation causes jamming of valves and flaps, impaired throughput capacity of channels and swirl chambers. The same consequences also result from the increased formation of oil deposit caused by faults of the engine, the crankcase ventilation system, wear of the valve stem seals, frequent short distance trips.

Moisture, dirt and carbon deposits pose a significant risk also to the air intake system electrical components. They can cause oxidation of terminals and decrease the sensors sensitivity.

Often, the intake system failures are connected with the vehicle adverse operating conditions. Due to temperature changes or vehicle storage outdoors, the air supply hose or the charger intake hose may crack. Driving on poor-quality surfaced roads, aggressive driving style, increased engine vibration can cause loosening of fasteners and clamps.

Often, the tightness of the intake system is violated due to mechanical damages, aging of sealing components, for instance, sensor rubber rings or intake manifold gaskets, as well as due to burnout of the manifold.

Repair and replacement of the air intake system

Usually the repair of the air intake system comprises cleaning its components from dirt and carbon deposits, as well as replacing faulty components: sensors, flaps, valves, hoses, connecting pipes, fasteners and clamps, and sometimes the intake manifold.

The procedure complexity is directly dependent on the damage degree and the replacement parts location. You can find more detailed instructions in the car technical documents.

Replacement of the entire intake system is usually performed as part of tuning in order to improve the car sports characteristics.