After 145,000 miles I finally got an intermittent vacuum leak code (P0174). So, I bought new IMT O-rings, brake booster check valve hose and PCV hose figuring I would replace all three. Replaced the O-rings and brake booster hose in a few minutes. I didn't do the PCV hose as I wasn't sure about the clamps that came with it. As best I can tell you squeeze it to loosen it and there does not appear any way to tighten it. From a quick search it sounds like you just position it and leave it. Is that really all there is to it or do I have to do something else? As you can probably tell I don't work on my car that much, but these three are "low risk" for my confidence level. Just want to be sure.

Light went out after I changed the first two of the big three, so not sure I even need to change the PCV hose. I currently have the ribbed hose and it looks to be in good shape, but I wanted change it none the less. Just looks like the saddle it rests on might be kind of sharp and could cause some fatigue over time.

Actually am kind of impressed that after over six years of ownership and over 100K miles that I put on it this is the first vacuum leak I have had. Was also surprised to see the yellow O-rings in there. Thought they started using the green ones long before my 2005 was made.

 

Alfadude, yes, the PCV hose is simply pressed into place. No need for any clamps to keep it in place. If you are truely worried, you could get yourself some hose clamps and use those. Just make sure not to tighten down too hard. Hate to see you damage something.

Odds are, your problem was the IMT o-rings. But, it could have been either one.

 

Thanks, Thermo. That's what I pretty much thought, but just wanted to make sure. I'll change it out on the weekend.

I thought it would be one the O-rings as well, especially seeing as I only had one code P0174 instead of also the P0171. I changed those first and I thought that was it as the check engine light went off after a few driving cycles. But it did return. Car did seem to be performing better overall though. My issue was a split second miss every so often and after that moment it would drive perfectly fine. I changed the brake booster and now the light has been off for two days so I think I fixed it. Will still replace the breather hose as I already have it.

Thanks again for your help.