Smell of fuel

A raw fuel smell inside or around the car should never be ignored: it can mean a fuel leak, which is a fire risk.

AreaExhaust & smells
UrgencyHigh

Can I keep driving? Limit driving and diagnose promptly. Continued driving can cause damage, stalling or limp mode.

Common causes

Loose or faulty fuel cap

Common and harmless, but sets EVAP codes.

EVAP system leak

Fuel vapour escapes from hoses or the charcoal canister.

Leaking fuel line or injector seal

A real fire risk, especially in the engine bay.

Engine running rich

Fuel smell from the exhaust.

Overfilled tank

Topping up after the pump clicks off can flood the EVAP canister.

What to check

  1. If you see dripping fuel, do not start the engine; have the car recovered.
  2. Check the fuel cap seal.
  3. Look under the car and in the engine bay for wet spots.
  4. Read fault codes.

Related OBD2 codes

Other exhaust & smells problems

White smoke from the exhaustBlue smoke from the exhaustBlack smoke from the exhaustBurning smell from the car

General guidance only. A qualified technician can confirm the cause; brakes, steering and fuel leaks should be checked professionally if in doubt.