Why is there a gasoline smell when starting the car?
2 Answers
Reasons for a gasoline smell when starting the car: 1. Cylinder issues; 2. Damaged fuel pump; 3. Dirty throttle; 4. Aging carbon canister. Car starting procedure: 1. Insert the key and turn it to the NO position to wait for the car's computer system to start; 2. Turn the key clockwise to the START position to ignite; 3. Press the foot brake and shift the car from parking gear P to drive gear D; 4. Release the handbrake and foot brake, then gently press the accelerator. The car engine uses an electric motor as the starting power, and the basic components of the starting system include the battery, ignition switch, starting relay, and starter. Its function is to convert the electrical energy from the battery into mechanical energy through the starter to initiate the engine's operation.
I was also puzzled when I first encountered the smell of gasoline when starting the car. Based on my experience, there could be several reasons for this. The most common one is fuel leakage, such as loose or aged and cracked fuel pipe connections, allowing gasoline to seep out and evaporate; or the fuel tank cap not being tightly closed, causing fuel vapors to escape from there. Another possibility is a faulty charcoal canister, which is supposed to absorb fuel vapors but releases odors when clogged or damaged. Additionally, during cold starts, the engine may inject too much fuel, and if the air-fuel mixture isn't properly adjusted, residual fuel vapors can drift into the cabin. This might occasionally be normal in new cars but is dangerous in older ones. Don't take it lightly. I recommend doing a quick self-check first: after starting the car, open the windows for ventilation, check the ground for any oil stains, and tighten the fuel tank cap to see if that resolves the issue. If the smell persists, stop the car immediately and do not restart it. Take it to a professional repair shop to identify the source of the leak to prevent fire hazards—safety should always come first.
