Why Does My Car Smell Like Gasoline?
2 Answers
Here are several possible reasons for a gasoline smell inside the car: 1. Poor sealing of the fuel tank cap, which may require replacement or applying a 1mm thick layer of butter under the rubber gasket. 2. Fine cracks or damage in the fuel supply line. 3. Gaps at the connection between the fuel line and the fuel tank (clamp not tight enough). 4. The charcoal canister is saturated with gasoline. Additionally, check the air filter hose under the hood, the carburetor hose (similar for fuel-injected cars), as these rubber hoses are prone to deterioration over time. The engine's operating condition can also cause a gasoline smell inside the car. If a cylinder is malfunctioning, not working, or not burning fuel completely, turning on the air conditioning and starting air circulation can lead to a strong smell of raw gasoline.
When I smell gasoline while driving, it always makes me nervous. This is mostly a sign of fuel leakage. A loose or aging fuel tank cap or small cracks in the fuel lines can cause gasoline to evaporate, especially when the engine is warm. Gasoline is highly flammable—just a tiny spark can ignite it, making it extremely dangerous! I once ignored this issue and later found that a loose fuel line connector in the engine bay was leaking. I stopped the car immediately to avoid an accident. For safety, if you smell gasoline, the first thing to do is close the windows, turn off the car lights, and stay away from any fire sources. Quickly check under the car or around the engine for any signs of leakage. If you can’t find the source, don’t hesitate—head straight to a professional repair shop. Don’t gamble with your life.
