P2279: Intake Air System Leak
8 vehicles · 5 makes · $50-$8,000 repair
Most Reported On
P2279 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Intake Air System Leak.” This code means the engine computer detected an air leak in the intake system downstream of the mass airflow sensor (unmetered air entering the engine). Because this air is not measured, the engine may run lean, idle roughly, or behave inconsistently. The computer flags it when fuel trims or airflow readings indicate more air is reaching the cylinders than the sensor accounts for. It is usually not an immediate safety issue but can cause drivability problems, poor fuel economy, and other related lean codes. This code is most commonly reported on 2007-2012 SEAT Leon (Reference, Style, FR), 2017-2025 Porsche 718 Cayman, and 2014-2018 Volkswagen Jetta (S, SE, SEL, Sport, Wolfsburg Edition), plus 5 other vehicles, with repair costs ranging from $50 to $8,000.
Common Causes
Typical Repair Cost
Based on 8 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.
Diagnostic Tools
This is a powertrain code, so a basic OBD-II reader can read it. These read P2279.
ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner
by ANCEL
A simple code reader for engine (P) codes on many compatible OBD-II vehicles. It does not support every vehicle or hybrid/EV application, and it does NOT read body, chassis or network codes; confirm exact-vehicle compatibility before buying.
- Read & clear engine (P) codes
- View freeze frame data
- I/M readiness status
- No batteries or app needed
BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner
by BlueDriver
Bluetooth scanner with a companion app that reads beyond the engine module — ABS, SRS and transmission — plus manufacturer-specific codes on many vehicles.
- Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
- Repair Reports with verified fixes
- Smog check readiness
- Free app (iOS & Android)
LAUNCH CRP123X V3.0 Elite OBD-II Scanner
by LAUNCH
Handheld scanner covering the four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.
- Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS diagnostics
- Live data stream & graphing
- AutoVIN for vehicle identification
- Free lifetime updates via Wi-Fi
Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool
by Autel
Shop-level tablet with all-system coverage and bi-directional control, so you can command a module rather than only read it.
- All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
- Bi-directional control & active tests
- Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
- 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
What you can do yourself, and what needs a shop
Reading the code, clearing it, and watching whether it returns is a driveway job with the right scanner. These steps are not:
- Module programming or software updates — needs the manufacturer software or a J2534 pass-through with a paid subscription.
- Replacing a control module — most are VIN-programmed and immobilizer-registered, so a new one does nothing until it is coded to your car.
- Airbag/SRS component work — a stored fault can deploy a live device.
If the vehicle is still under warranty, check for an open recall or technical service bulletin before buying anything — the repair may already be covered.
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Vehicles Affected (8)
FAQ
What does P2279 mean?
P2279 stands for "Intake Air System Leak." This code means the engine computer detected an air leak in the intake system downstream of the mass airflow sensor (unmetered air entering the engine). Because this air is not measured, the engine may run lean, idle roughly, or behave inconsistently. The computer flags it when fuel trims or airflow readings indicate more air is reaching the cylinders than the sensor accounts for. It is usually not an immediate safety issue but can cause drivability problems, poor fuel economy, and other related lean codes.
What are the most common causes of P2279?
The most common causes of P2279 are: Cracked or loose intake hose / air duct after the MAF, Vacuum leak (hoses, gaskets, PCV), Loose or damaged intake manifold gasket, Faulty or dirty mass airflow sensor, Leaking throttle body gasket, Unseated or cracked intake boot clamp, Failed PCV valve or hose. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P2279?
Repair costs for P2279 range from $50 to $8,000, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P2279?
Au7o has documented P2279 across 8 vehicle models from 5 manufacturers: Audi, Opel, Porsche, SEAT, Volkswagen.
Sources (12)
- ForumAir-Oil-Separator (AOS) Problem | Porsche 718 Forum
- articlePorsche Air Oil Separator (AOS) for Boxster, Cayman, 911 | LN Engineering
- articleIdentifying Air-Oil Separator Failure in Your Porsche | Bluewater Performance
- Forum2014 Jetta 1.8T excessive oil consumption - VW Vortex
- Forum1.8T TSI Oil Consumption - VW Vortex
- articleVW 2.0-Liter TSI Engine Problems Cause Class Action Lawsuit - CarComplaints
- Forum2.0 TSI oil consumption? - VW Tiguan Forum
- Forum2.0TSI - Excessive Oil Consumption - VW Vortex
- articleVW Tiguan Engine Oil Consumption Lawsuit Affects EA888 Engines - CarComplaints
- TSBAudi TSB 2040644/6 - Warm-Idle Whistle, P2279/P0507 and Crankcase Breather Leak
- articleDrallklappen Gestänge Reparatursatz für Fehler P2279/P2075 1.9 CDTI — Tuning-Fanatics
- articleZafira B 1.9 CDTI Defekte — MOTOR-TALK (Drallklappen/AGR/DPF)
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.