Car smells like fuel inside after getting gas

2009 CHEVROLET IMPALA
150,000 MILES • 3.5L • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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THECARMAN345
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
I notice a fuel smell inside the car after even putting $5.00 of fuel in. Not sure what is causing that.
Feb 25, 2019 at 10:50 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,194 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.

where you live can play a big role in this. If you drive on salted/treated roads for snow removal, often times a fuel line will rust or the filler tube where the gas goes can leak. On the other hand, if you don't smell it until it is started, then it may be pressure related and leaking near the engine. Also, there are hoses for the evaporative emissions system (evap) that can be damaged, broken, or even disconnected which can lead to a smell.

No matter how you look at it, the leak isn't actually in the vehicle but rather the smell enters the vehicle. With that being said, do the following:

If the check engine light stays on when the engine is running, have the computer scanned for diagnostic trouble codes. This can identify an EVAP component that failed or even a leak.

Next, when you put fuel into the vehicle, pay attention if you see any leaks under the vehicle near where the fuel goes.

If nothing is found, start the vehicle for a few seconds and then turn it off. Check for leaks at any location under the vehicle. If nothing is found, open the hood and see if the smell is strong under the hood.

Do these things and let me know what you find. Once we determine where the leak is located, I can direct you on how it will need repaired.

Let me know.

Joe
Feb 26, 2019 at 4:38 PM
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