What Causes the Smell of Gasoline Inside the Engine?
2 Answers
The reasons for the smell of gasoline inside the engine are: 1. Gasoline leakage in the engine's fuel system. You can specifically check the engine's fuel lines to see if there is any leakage; 2. Carbon deposits in the engine clogging the fuel injectors, causing the sprayed gasoline to not atomize properly and form droplets, which can also lead to a gasoline smell in the engine; 3. Gasoline pipe leakage. The gasoline smell may enter the car through the air conditioning system. Leakage usually occurs at the junctions between pipes. You can open the engine hood and visually inspect it, as a layer of grime will appear on the surface over time if there is leakage, requiring tightening or repair.
I've been driving for over a decade and have encountered several instances of gasoline smell from the engine. Here's my experience sharing. Common causes include aging fuel lines cracking and leaking, damaged injector seals, or loose fuel tank caps leading to vapor leaks. This is especially noticeable when the engine is hot or during startup. In such cases, you should immediately stop the car, turn off the engine, and check under the hood for any oil stains or wet marks. For simple DIY troubleshooting, you can try tightening the fuel cap. But if the smell persists, never ignore it—leak points may create fire hazards and also waste fuel, increasing operating costs. I recommend asking technicians to thoroughly inspect fuel system components during your next maintenance service to prevent potential issues. Regular maintenance can extend part lifespan and ensure driving safety.
