2020 Ford Mustang Intake Leak? Causes, Symptoms & DIY Fix

How to Fix Exhaust Manifold Issues

Dealing with exhaust manifold issues on your 2020 Ford Mustang can be frustrating, especially when it affects performance and sound. Owners have noted various symptoms, ranging from strange smells to noticeable changes in exhaust tone. "I probably wouldn't even have noticed an on foot cop trying to flag me down, my exhaust and radio is too loud," shared one owner, highlighting the importance of a well-functioning exhaust system (source). This guide will help you diagnose and address these problems.

Symptoms

Several symptoms can indicate an exhaust manifold issue in your vehicle. One of the more obvious signs is an unusual smell, often described as exhaust fumes entering the cabin. You might also notice a change in the sound of your exhaust, particularly after revving the engine. "Love my 5.0, the Active exhaust with a humble H pipe is great. But the 4.6 is better sounding with a good exhaust," commented an owner, emphasizing the significance of proper exhaust sound (source).

Another common symptom is the illumination of the check engine light. This light can indicate a variety of issues, but when coupled with other exhaust-related symptoms, it's a strong indicator of a potential manifold problem. In some cases, owners have reported a noticeable decrease in engine performance or fuel efficiency alongside the exhaust issues.

Some owners have described the exhaust sound as a "whisper" when an issue is present, suggesting a leak or improper sealing. This can be particularly noticeable during cold starts or when the engine is under heavy load. The combination of these symptoms warrants a thorough inspection of your exhaust system. It's important to address these issues promptly to prevent further damage and maintain optimal performance.

Most Likely Cause

Based on owner reports, the primary cause of exhaust-related issues in the 2020 Ford Mustang is an intake leak. An intake leak can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to various symptoms that might seem like exhaust problems. While the exhaust manifold itself may not be cracked or damaged, a leak in the intake system can affect the way exhaust gases are managed, creating the illusion of an exhaust issue.

An intake leak can occur due to several factors, including worn or damaged gaskets, loose connections, or cracks in the intake manifold itself. When unmetered air enters the engine through these leaks, it can cause the engine to run lean, leading to poor performance, increased emissions, and potential damage to other engine components. It's crucial to identify and address the intake leak to resolve the underlying issue.

Addressing the intake leak often involves replacing gaskets, tightening connections, or replacing the intake manifold if it is damaged. Properly sealing the intake system ensures that the engine receives the correct air-fuel mixture, optimizing performance and reducing the likelihood of exhaust-related symptoms.

How to Diagnose

Diagnosing an intake leak on your vehicle requires a systematic approach to pinpoint the source of the problem. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you diagnose the issue:

1. Visual Inspection: Begin by visually inspecting the intake manifold and surrounding components. Look for any obvious signs of damage, such as cracks, loose connections, or deteriorated gaskets. Pay close attention to the areas where the intake manifold meets the cylinder head.

2. Listen for Leaks: With the engine running, listen for any hissing or whistling sounds around the intake manifold. These sounds can indicate air escaping from a leak. You can use a stethoscope or a length of hose to help pinpoint the location of the leak.

3. Smoke Test: A smoke test is an effective way to identify intake leaks. This involves using a smoke machine to introduce smoke into the intake system. Any leaks will be revealed by smoke escaping from the affected areas.

4. Spray Test: With the engine running, spray a small amount of carburetor cleaner or starting fluid around the intake manifold gaskets and connections. If the engine RPM changes when you spray a particular area, it indicates a leak in that location. Be cautious when using flammable sprays and avoid spraying near hot engine components.

5. Check Vacuum Lines: Inspect all vacuum lines connected to the intake manifold for cracks, breaks, or loose connections. Replace any damaged or deteriorated vacuum lines.

6. Scan for Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the intake system or air-fuel mixture. Codes such as P0171 (System Too Lean, Bank 1) or P0174 (System Too Lean, Bank 2) can indicate an intake leak.

Tool Requirements:

• OBD-II scanner
• Socket set
• Wrench set
• Carburetor cleaner or starting fluid
• Smoke machine (optional)
• Stethoscope or hose (optional)

Step-by-Step Fix

Once you've identified an intake leak on your 2020 Ford Mustang, you can proceed with the repair. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you fix the issue:

1. Gather Parts and Tools: Ensure you have all the necessary parts and tools before starting the repair. This includes new intake manifold gaskets, any damaged vacuum lines, and the tools listed in the diagnostic section.

2. Disconnect Battery: Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent any electrical issues during the repair.

3. Remove Intake Manifold: Carefully remove the intake manifold from the engine. This typically involves disconnecting various sensors, hoses, and vacuum lines connected to the manifold. Refer to your vehicle's repair manual for specific instructions.

4. Inspect Intake Manifold: Once the intake manifold is removed, thoroughly inspect it for any cracks, damage, or warping. If the manifold is damaged, it should be replaced.

5. Clean Mating Surfaces: Clean the mating surfaces on the cylinder head and intake manifold. Remove any old gasket material or debris to ensure a proper seal.

6. Install New Gaskets: Install new intake manifold gaskets onto the cylinder head. Ensure the gaskets are properly aligned and seated.

7. Reinstall Intake Manifold: Carefully reinstall the intake manifold onto the cylinder head. Torque the manifold bolts to the manufacturer's specifications in the correct sequence.

8. Reconnect Components: Reconnect all sensors, hoses, and vacuum lines that were disconnected during the removal process. Ensure all connections are secure.

9. Reconnect Battery: Reconnect the negative battery cable.

10. Test Engine: Start the engine and listen for any remaining leaks. Use carburetor cleaner or starting fluid to check for leaks around the intake manifold gaskets and connections.

"As some of you saw I just made a post about the window sticker lol. Anyways I just picked this sweet thing up with a screaming roush exhaust and what seems like some other major work put into it wheels seem to brake traction in pretty much any gear," said one owner, highlighting the importance of maintaining performance after modifications (source).

Parts and Tools Needed

• Intake Manifold Gaskets (Specific to 2020 Ford Mustang 5.0L or 2.3L EcoBoost, depending on your engine)
• Vacuum Lines (Various sizes, depending on which need replacement)
• Carburetor Cleaner or Starting Fluid
• OBD-II Scanner
• Socket Set
• Wrench Set
• Torque Wrench
• Screwdrivers

Real Owner Costs

The cost of fixing an intake leak on your 2020 Ford Mustang can vary depending on whether you choose to do it yourself or take it to a professional mechanic. Here are some real owner cost examples:

DIY Repair:

• Intake Manifold Gaskets: $30 - $70
• Vacuum Lines: $10 - $30
• Carburetor Cleaner: $5 - $10
• Total DIY Cost: $45 - $110

Professional Repair:

• Labor Costs: $200 - $500 (depending on the shop rate and complexity of the repair)
• Parts Costs: $50 - $100 (for gaskets and vacuum lines)
• Total Professional Cost: $250 - $600

Some owners have reported paying around $350 for a professional repair, including labor and parts. Others have saved money by doing the repair themselves, spending only on the necessary parts. It's essential to get a quote from a reputable mechanic before proceeding with a professional repair to ensure you're getting a fair price.

Prevention

Preventing intake leaks on your vehicle involves regular maintenance and careful attention to detail. Here are some tips to help prevent these issues:

• Regular Inspections: Periodically inspect the intake manifold and surrounding components for any signs of damage, cracks, or loose connections.
• Proper Torque: When installing or reinstalling the intake manifold, ensure that you torque the bolts to the manufacturer's specifications. Over-tightening can damage the manifold or gaskets, while under-tightening can lead to leaks.
• Use Quality Parts: When replacing gaskets or vacuum lines, use high-quality parts that are designed for your vehicle. This will ensure a proper seal and prevent premature failure.
• Avoid Extreme Heat: Extreme heat can cause gaskets and vacuum lines to deteriorate over time. Avoid exposing your engine to excessive heat whenever possible.
• Check Vacuum Lines Regularly: Inspect vacuum lines regularly for cracks, breaks, or loose connections. Replace any damaged or deteriorated vacuum lines promptly.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from FORD owners:

Owner Experiences

"I probably wouldn't even have noticed an on foot cop trying to flag me down, my exhaust and radio is too loud." — Far_Adeptness9884 (source)

"As some of you saw I just made a post about the window sticker lol. Anyways I just picked this sweet thing up with a screaming roush exhaust and what seems like some other major work put into it wheels seem to brake traction in pretty much any gear." — Appropriate-Car-9110 (source)

"135k on the dash paid 15k for it if anyone has opinions or tips for me about the car please lmk Been dreaming about a 5.0 since I had a S550 eco PP 4 years ago" — Appropriate-Car-9110 (source)

Real Repair Costs

"I'm sure people do it, but no, so new wheels/tires are needed. I just think I might be able to get something I can just get in & drive for $30K." — Puzzleheaded_Pipe979 (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to fix an intake leak?

A: The time required to fix an intake leak can vary depending on your experience and the complexity of the repair. DIY repairs can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, while a professional mechanic may be able to complete the repair in 1 to 3 hours.

Q: Can I drive with an intake leak?

A: While it's possible to drive with an intake leak, it's not recommended. An intake leak can cause your engine to run lean, leading to poor performance, increased emissions, and potential damage to other engine components. It's best to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Q: Is this a common issue on the 2020 Ford Mustang?

A: While not every 2020 Ford Mustang will experience an intake leak, it is a known issue that can occur due to wear and tear or other factors. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these issues.

Q: DIY vs mechanic – what's recommended?

A: Whether you should attempt a DIY repair or take your vehicle to a mechanic depends on your experience and comfort level. If you have experience working on engines and are comfortable with the diagnostic and repair procedures, a DIY repair can save you money. However, if you're not confident in your abilities, it's best to take your vehicle to a professional mechanic to ensure the repair is done correctly. "135k on the dash paid 15k for it if anyone has opinions or tips for me about the car please lmk Been dreaming about a 5.0 since I had a S550 eco PP 4 years ago" (source).