Why is there a strong smell of gasoline when starting the car?
2 Answers
The reason for the strong smell of gasoline when starting the car is: the gasoline is not completely burned. When the car starts while cold, the onboard computer will appropriately increase the fuel injection based on the intake air temperature and coolant temperature signals. At this time, the engine has not yet reached its normal operating temperature, resulting in poor combustion efficiency. This causes some fuel to be expelled without being fully burned, leading to a strong gasoline smell when starting the car. In older cars, the rubber hoses in the engine compartment are prone to aging, which can cause leaks. If you notice a strong gasoline smell when starting the car and the smell persists, you should check the condition of the fuel lines. If the strong gasoline smell remains after the car has been running for a while, it indicates a malfunction. Common issues include insufficient air intake through the throttle, which leads to incorrect air flow information affecting the fuel injection amount, resulting in a heavier gasoline smell.
When starting the car, there's a gasoline smell. I've been driving for over a decade, and this phenomenon is quite common. Possible reasons include minor issues in the fuel system, such as loose fuel pipe connections or aging oil pump seals causing leaks. During cold starts, the engine temperature is low, and gasoline may not burn completely, leading to evaporation. The safety risk is significant—leaking gasoline can ignite upon contact with sparks, especially the electrical sparks during startup. I recommend first checking if the fuel tank cap is tightened, as this is the simplest oversight. If that's not the issue, inspect the engine area for any oil stains. Don't delay; if you detect an unusual odor, stop the car immediately, ventilate the area, and visit a professional repair shop as soon as possible. Older cars are more prone to such problems, like a failing evaporative emission control system allowing gasoline fumes to escape. Regular maintenance, including checking filters and fuel lines, can prevent many issues.