What Causes a Strong Gasoline Smell When the Car Air Conditioner is On?

[DiDonovan]

The following are the main reasons for a strong gasoline smell when the car air conditioner is on: 1. Overfilling the fuel tank: This often occurs right after refueling, especially when the tank is filled to the brim. This can cause gasoline to flow into the activated charcoal canister through the pipes. When the canister, which collects gasoline vapors, gets saturated with gasoline, it releases excess vapors through the vent. If the air conditioner is in external circulation mode, these gasoline fumes can enter the car cabin. The solution is to switch to internal circulation and drive for a while. 2. Poor sealing of the fuel tank cap: Simply replacing the rubber gasket or applying a layer of grease under it can solve this issue. 3. Aging rubber hoses of the charcoal canister: Rubber hoses in the engine compartment can deteriorate over time. The hose connecting the charcoal canister to the throttle body is particularly prone to aging, which can lead to gasoline leaks. This is common in older vehicles. The solution is straightforward—replace the aged rubber hose. Typically, the smell enters the cabin through the air conditioner's external circulation system.