2001 Subaru Legacy gasoline odor in very cold weather

2001SUBARULEGACYGTWAGON

MEMBER
2001 SUBARU LEGACY
4 CYL
AWD
AUTOMATIC
85,000 MILES

When the temp drops below 20F, there is a strong smell of gasoline inside the car for the first 15min or so of operation. This only shows up when it's really cold.

also, a 'hot' smell is detected sometimes (possibly antifreeze) after prolonged operation.

concerned that the fuel smell could be dangerous; what could the problem be, and what is the likely repair cost?

3 Replies

2CARPRO JACK

MECHANIC
11,533 POSTS

First off, need to carefully inspect it for any leaks. Look around the injectors, at all connections. Does it put out any excessive amount of black/dark smoke when you can smell fuel? It may be enriching too much for the extreme cold. Cost is impossible to guess without knowing the problem

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Tuesday, February 10th, 2009 AT 7:58 AM

2001SUBARULEGACYGTWAGON

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Thanks - will check next time it's cold for leaks around the injector.

No dark/black smoke on start up, tho there is a stronger smell of fuel in the exhaust than there used to be when it starts.

The smell is strongest inside the car when it's cold, not sure if it could be something with the fuel line, or the tank?

Thanks.

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Tuesday, February 10th, 2009 AT 8:09 AM

2CARPRO JACK

MECHANIC
11,533 POSTS

Inspect the fuel system for any leaks, gas wil leave a "stain" where it leaks. No smoke, but rich? May be a coolant sensor causing an over-rich mixture due to temp outside

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Friday, February 27th, 2009 AT 8:06 AM