Why is there a gasoline smell when starting a cold engine?
2 Answers
The reasons for the gasoline smell during a cold start are: 1. The water temperature and exhaust pipe temperature are low, leading to incomplete combustion in the engine; 2. The fuel injector has carbon deposits or leakage issues, resulting in poor gasoline atomization; 3. The carbon canister or its solenoid valve is faulty; 4. Severe carbon buildup in the valves or air flow meter, causing reduced power; 5. Excessive carbon deposits inside the engine cylinders. Precautions for cold starts include: 1. Avoid prolonged idling to warm up the engine, as the starter components are not fully lubricated and the engine temperature has not reached optimal operating levels; 2. The fuel injector automatically increases the fuel injection rate to raise the RPM, and normal driving can commence once the engine reaches the optimal operating temperature.
I used to drive an old car, and I often smelled gasoline when starting it cold. At first, I didn’t pay much attention, thinking it was normal. Later, a car-savvy friend warned me that it might be a fuel leak, such as aging fuel lines or cracks in the fuel tank—which can be really dangerous, as a fire could be disastrous. After inspection, it turned out that a connector near the engine was loose, and a minor fix solved the problem. Normally, especially in winter or high humidity, a cold engine start requires more fuel injection for warm-up, and incomplete combustion can easily release odors. However, if the smell is very strong or persistent, you should be alert. Don’t cut corners by going to a small, unreliable repair shop—take it to a proper garage to check the fuel system. Safety first—don’t wait until something goes wrong to regret it.
