Fuel smell: Codes, Causes & Fixes

A faint fuel smell after refueling often comes from the evaporative emission system – a loose gas cap, a leaking purge or vent valve or a cracked EVAP hose – and may come with codes in the P0440–P0457 range. A strong raw fuel smell, especially with visible drips under the car or from the engine bay, can mean a leaking fuel line or injector seal and is a fire risk. In that case do not start the engine, keep ignition sources away and have the vehicle inspected or towed.

34Codes

2.3Average severity

6%High or critical

32%DIY-friendly

Severity distribution

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P0172 Powertrain The engine computer is pulling as much fuel as it's allowed on bank 1 and the mixture is still… Moderate P0093 Powertrain Rail pressure is dropping faster than injection explains: fuel may be escaping. Stop and check… Critical P0108 Powertrain The MAP signal is pinned near 5 volts, so the PCM sees impossibly high manifold pressure even… Moderate P0457 Powertrain The EVAP leak test found the system wide open — almost always a loose, missing or worn gas cap. Minor P0455 Powertrain The fuel vapor system can't hold vacuum at all — check the gas cap first, then hoses and valves. Low P0300 Powertrain The engine computer sees misfires that jump between cylinders or hit several cylinders at once. High

All codes (2)

All Severity 3+ Severity 4+

P0093 Powertrain Rail pressure is dropping faster than injection explains: fuel may be escaping. Stop and check… Critical P0300 Powertrain The engine computer sees misfires that jump between cylinders or hit several cylinders at once. High

Symptoms

Check engine light on 558 Loss of power 214 Rough idle 184 Limp mode 165 Poor fuel economy 146 Engine stalling 133 Car won't start 123 Harsh or slipping shifts 80 ABS / traction light on 65 Check engine light flashing 22