What Causes a Strong Gasoline Smell?
2 Answers
The reasons for a strong gasoline smell are as follows: 1. Overfilling the gas tank. When the tank is full, gasoline may flow into the charcoal canister through the fuel line. The charcoal canister is designed to absorb gasoline vapors, but if it becomes saturated with liquid gasoline, it may excessively release gasoline vapors through the ventilation holes, especially when the air conditioning is in external circulation mode, making the gasoline smell particularly strong. 2. Aging of the charcoal canister rubber hose. The rubber hose connecting the charcoal canister to the throttle body will gradually deteriorate with increased mileage. Aging can cause gasoline vapor leaks, resulting in a persistent gasoline smell inside the car.
That day, I suddenly smelled a strong gasoline odor while driving and immediately pulled over to inspect the car. Older cars are prone to such issues, often due to fuel line leaks. A loose fuel cap, aged and cracked fuel hoses, or failed injector seals can all cause gasoline leakage. Another time, I discovered a clogged charcoal canister also emitted a pungent smell. Never ignore prolonged exposure to gasoline fumes—it's not only harmful to health but also a fire hazard. It's advisable to first park the car in a safe, ventilated area and then promptly visit a repair shop for diagnosis. Always check the fuel cap seal after refueling and inspect the fuel system during regular maintenance. Avoid parking near high temperatures or ignition sources after use—safety first.
