Do it yourself
Frequently asked questions about cars and motorcycles

Checking for Potential Vacuum Leaks

Model: BMW Serie 5 E39 - Years: 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Part: Checks and maintenance

See other generations:
Video tutorial

If there are any leaks in the intake system, a primary symptom will be irregular engine operation, especially at idle: you will notice the engine revving up and down with a tendency to stall. In this situation, it is not easy to pinpoint the location of the leak since the intake system consists of many components between the manifold and hoses.

A very simple, economical, and effective method is to use soapy water sprayed with a spray bottle on the various elements and check for the appearance of bubbles.


Updated on 10 February 2026 by ScegliAuto


Related tutorials

BMW Serie 5 (1995-2003 / E39) If you own a BMW (both Series 3 and Series 5, any version) and suddenly, after locking it with the remote, thus activating the factory alarm, it star…
BMW Serie 5 (2010-2017 / F11, F10) Topping up the coolant in a BMW 5 Series, as shown in this tutorial, is a very simple and quick operation. First, ensure the engine is completely col…
BMW Serie 5 (1995-2003 / E39) The mass air flow (MAF) sensor, commonly known as the air flow meter, is located along the intake duct, just behind the engine air filter housing. To…

How to Activate the Automatic Folding and Unfolding of the Wing Mirrors on the Jeep Compass

Follow these brief instructions to activate the automatic folding and unfolding of the external wing mirrors on the Jeep Compass. First, get inside the vehicle and turn on the ignition; then press the button located beneath the mirror glass adjustment to electrically open the mirror, as shown in the video. Pressing the button in the opposite direction will close the mirrors; by holding the button, the mirrors will open and close automatically!

Watch the video!


by ScegliAuto

More videos