2020 Honda Fit Intake Leak? How to Diagnose and Repair It

How to Fix an Intake Manifold Issue

If you're experiencing issues with the intake system on your 2020 Honda Fit, you're not alone. Owners have reported various symptoms, often linked to fuel system and intake leak issues. One owner emphasized the importance of preventative measures, stating, "The deposits eventually get bad enough to restrict fuel flow out of the injectors. Best preventative measures are to add a catch can, use good fuel, and make sure you are running the car hard enough on each outing to get some good heat in the cylinders." (source). This guide will walk you through diagnosing and addressing potential intake-related problems.

Symptoms

Owners of the vehicle have described a range of symptoms that might indicate an issue with the intake system. One common complaint is overheating. If your temperature gauge is consistently higher than normal, or if you notice steam coming from under the hood, it could be related to an issue with the fuel system leading to an inefficient combustion process. This can be indirectly linked to the intake system, as a properly functioning intake is crucial for delivering the correct air-fuel mixture.

Another symptom some drivers encounter is cold start stutters. This could present as hesitation or rough idling when you first start the engine, especially in colder weather. This issue may point toward an imbalance in the air-fuel mixture during the initial combustion phase, possibly due to an intake leak affecting the amount of air entering the engine.

Loss of torque is also among the concerns reported. If you notice a reduction in the vehicle's power, especially during acceleration or when climbing hills, an intake leak may be to blame. A compromised intake system can lead to insufficient airflow, reducing the engine's ability to generate power efficiently. A good intake can improve the situation. As one owner reported: "Intake installed Attack intake I highly recommend it for under $300 USD! This along with my HKS Hi-power exhaust really changes the personality of this car." (source).

Finally, some owners have described experiencing vibration noise. This might sound like rattling or unusual vibrations coming from the engine area. While various issues can cause such sounds, it's worth investigating potential intake-related problems, as leaks or loose components can sometimes generate unusual noises.

Most Likely Cause

Based on owner reports, the primary cause of intake-related issues in the vehicle appears to be problems with the fuel system, potentially leading to an intake leak. The fuel system plays a critical role in delivering the correct amount of fuel to the engine for efficient combustion. When the fuel system malfunctions, it can disrupt the air-fuel ratio, causing performance issues, overheating, and other symptoms.

An intake leak can further exacerbate these problems. The intake manifold is responsible for distributing air evenly to the engine cylinders. If there's a leak in the intake manifold or its gaskets, unmetered air can enter the engine, disrupting the delicate air-fuel balance. This can lead to lean running conditions, where there's too much air and not enough fuel, resulting in rough idling, hesitation, and reduced power. Considering a cold air intake might mitigate some effects.

How to Diagnose

Diagnosing an intake leak requires careful inspection and the use of specific tools. Here's a step-by-step process:

1. Visual Inspection: Start by visually inspecting the intake manifold and its surrounding components. Look for any signs of cracks, damage, or loose connections. Pay close attention to the intake manifold gaskets, which are a common source of leaks.
2. Smoke Test: A smoke test is a highly effective method for detecting intake leaks. This involves using a smoke machine to introduce smoke into the intake system. If there's a leak, the smoke will escape from the affected area, making it easy to identify the source of the problem.
3. Carburetor Cleaner Test: With the engine running, spray carburetor cleaner around the intake manifold gaskets and vacuum lines. If the engine idle changes when you spray a particular area, it indicates a leak in that location.
4. OBD-II Scanner: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any trouble codes related to the fuel system or air-fuel mixture. Codes like P0171 (System Too Lean) can provide valuable clues about potential intake leaks or fuel system problems.
5. Tools Required: You'll need tools such as a socket set, wrench set, screwdriver set, smoke machine (optional), carburetor cleaner, and an OBD-II scanner.

Step-by-Step Fix

Addressing an intake leak typically involves replacing the affected gaskets or components. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Gather Supplies: Obtain the necessary replacement gaskets or parts for your intake manifold.
2. Disconnect Battery: Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent electrical issues during the repair.
3. Remove Intake Manifold: Carefully remove the intake manifold from the engine. This may involve disconnecting various hoses, vacuum lines, and electrical connectors.
4. Clean Mating Surfaces: Thoroughly clean the mating surfaces on the engine and intake manifold to ensure a proper seal with the new gaskets. As one owner shared, "I used a long pick with a spoon shape tip, not a pointy tip. The carbon deposit is soft once you soak it with cleaner + brake clean, easy to scrape off." (source).
5. Install New Gaskets: Install the new intake manifold gaskets, making sure they are properly aligned.
6. Reinstall Intake Manifold: Reinstall the intake manifold onto the engine, carefully tightening the bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
7. Reconnect Components: Reconnect all hoses, vacuum lines, and electrical connectors that were disconnected during the removal process.
8. Reconnect Battery: Reconnect the negative battery cable.
9. Start Engine: Start the engine and listen for any signs of leaks or unusual noises.
10. Test Drive: Take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure the problem is resolved and the engine is running smoothly.

Parts and Tools Needed

• Intake manifold gasket set (check part number based on your vehicle's VIN)
• Socket set
• Wrench set
• Screwdriver set
• Torque wrench
• Carburetor cleaner
• Smoke machine (optional)
• OBD-II scanner
• Feeler gauges.

Real Owner Costs

The cost of fixing an intake leak can vary depending on the severity of the problem and whether you choose to do it yourself or take it to a mechanic.

DIY Repair:

• Intake manifold gasket set: $20 - $50
• Carburetor cleaner: $5 - $10
• Total DIY cost: $25 - $60

Professional Repair:

• Labor: $200 - $500
• Parts: $50 - $100
• Total professional cost: $250 - $600

It's worth noting that some owners have invested in aftermarket parts to improve their vehicle's performance. As one owner reported: "I can't wait to get a video of it from the outside, cause inside it sounds rowdy! Intake installed Attack intake I highly recommend it for under $300 USD!" (source). These upgrades can add to the overall cost but may offer performance benefits.

Prevention

Preventing intake-related issues involves regular maintenance and attention to the fuel system. Here are some tips:

• Use High-Quality Fuel: Using high-quality fuel can help prevent deposits from forming in the fuel system, reducing the risk of fuel injector problems.
• Regularly Inspect Hoses and Vacuum Lines: Check hoses and vacuum lines for cracks or damage and replace them as needed.
• Clean Intake Manifold: Periodically clean the intake manifold to remove carbon deposits and ensure proper airflow. As one owner shared: "I do not have a $400 walnut blaster + intake port adapter to do it easily. I used the combo of brake cleaner + CRC intake valve cleaner + bunch of towels + a long pick." (source).
• Consider an Oil Catch Can: An oil catch can can help prevent oil vapors from entering the intake manifold, reducing the buildup of carbon deposits.
• Address Fuel System Issues Promptly: If you notice any signs of fuel system problems, such as rough idling or reduced power, address them promptly to prevent further damage.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from HONDA owners:

Success Stories

"One question: has it been worked out to program the ABS module from Forscan or does it still take IDS to do it? So I finally got the last missing part today, which was the correct steering wheel switch pack." — Butch88 (source)

"I'm out of town for work the next couple of weeks so it will be a while before I can complete it. One question: has it been worked out to program the ABS module from Forscan or does it still take IDS to do it?" — Butch88 (source)

Owner Experiences

"One things for sure, on your fit, fuel shouldn't be a problem lol. Is it a return based system or does it dead head? (I'm not sure on the L15's yet) OMG LOL it's so funny I haven't seen that since my DSM days exactly what I had for about super AFC lol." — Itfits ... Twss (source)

"Quote: Originally Posted by GAFIT Just my guess, but I'd say the '15 injectors had a design flaw. Later years are failing due to the poor Direct Injection design that is allowing carbon deposits to form on the backside of the valves AND on the injectors themselves." — mousefit (source)

"I find that the Oil Catch Can can be useful to limit deposits and keep the intake cleaner. Personally, I would take a simple and reliable brand and I would place it in an easy-to-reach place for emptying." — CINQCARS (source)

Pro Tips from Owners

💡 "I used a long pick with a spoon shape tip, not a pointy tip. The carbon deposit is soft once you soak it with cleaner + brake clean, easy to scrape off." — t-rd (source)

💡 "But I think the main reason was when I was a kid I didn't realize every time you blow a head gasket you should resurface the head so I just kept slapping warped head on top of a new gasket over and over I was young and dumb lol." — Itfits ... Twss (source)

💡 "The deposits eventually get bad enough to restrict fuel flow out of the injectors. Best preventative measures are to add a catch can, use good fuel, and make sure you are running the car hard enough on each outing to get some good heat in the cylinders." — mousefit (source)

Real Repair Costs

"I can't wait to get a video of it from the outside, cause inside it sounds rowdy! Intake installed Attack intake I highly recommend it for under $300 USD!" — RoulantG (source)

"Intake installed Attack intake I highly recommend it for under $300 USD! This along with my HKS Hi-power exhaust really changes the personality of this car." — RoulantG (source)

"I do not have a $400 walnut blaster + intake port adapter to do it easily. I used the combo of brake cleaner + CRC intake valve cleaner + bunch of towels + a long pick." — Gekisen (source)

FAQ

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

A: The repair time can vary depending on your experience and the complexity of the job. A DIY repair might take 2-4 hours, while a professional mechanic can typically complete the job in 1-2 hours.

Q: Can I drive with an intake leak?

A: While you can technically drive with an intake leak, it's not recommended. Driving with a leak can lead to reduced performance, poor fuel economy, and potential damage to the engine.

Q: Is this a common issue on the vehicle?

A: While not every vehicle owner experiences intake-related issues, it is a known problem, particularly in older vehicles or those with high mileage. Owners that have these issues should fix them immediately.

Q: DIY vs. Mechanic - what's recommended?

A: If you're comfortable working on cars and have the necessary tools, a DIY repair can save you money. However, if you're not mechanically inclined or lack the proper tools, it's best to take it to a professional mechanic. As one owner indicated, some fixes require specialized tools.