QuestionI have 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe, and am experiencing a lot of rumble and stumbling. I have been around cars for some time, but I am no expert. Check engine light has come on, and I have checked all fluid levels and basic engine connections. I do hear a great deal of hissing, which lead me to believe it is vacuum leak. I wanted to ask for a second opinion first, before I go into a shop and sound like an idiot. Is there a way to repair myself, or should I take it to a shop.
AnswerHissing is often a sign of a vacuum leak. Check the PCV hose first. Sometimes, the hissing is just the air moving through the PCV valve, but the PCV hose is the most frequent cause of leaks. I've seen them too soft with holes sucked into them.
But to determine whether you actually have a vacuum leak, it'll probably be a good idea to approach systematically.
If you can, check to see what the trouble code is. The trouble code may be related to a vacuum leak, or could indicate some other problem that will make the engine run poorly.
When does this "rumble and stumbling" occur? Only at idle? Cold or warm engine? All the time?
Also, if you let me know what engine you have, I may be able to offer suggestions specific to the management system on the particular engine.
