2001 Acura CL Smells Like Gas

Common Causes of Fuel Odors in Your 2001 Acura CL and Essential Safety Precautions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
15% chance it's the
Gas Cap
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions Control System
0%
45% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2001 Acura CL smells like gas are the gas cap, the fuel system, or the emissions control system.
  • Gas Cap: A loose or damaged gas cap can cause fuel vapors to escape, triggering the check engine light and potentially affecting fuel efficiency.
  • Emissions Control System: A faulty emissions control system can lead to increased hydrocarbon emissions and trigger the check engine light due to malfunctioning components like the EGR valve or O2 sensors.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2001 Acura CL smells like gas?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A failing catalytic converter can cause a vehicle to fail emissions tests and turn on the check engine light. The exhaust might have an unusual smell. A restricted catalytic converter can result in a loss of engine power.

» LEARN MORE: How to tell if your catalytic converter is failing

The check engine light will illuminate any time there is a failed EVAP system test. This will be indicated by the various on-board diagnostics trouble codes that are stored in the vehicle's memory. Also, in some models, there may be a popping sound accompanying the check engine light, as the leak detection pump continuously attempts to pressurize the fuel tank. The canister may also cause difficulty starting the engine, a rough idle, and poor fuel mileage.

When the fuel filter begins to clog, the engine suffers from fuel starvation. This will cause a significant reduction in power and may also cause a misfire. These conditions may be intermittent, or constant and worsen over time. As the issue progresses, the engine may being to stall immediately after starting, fail to start, hesitate under throttle, or stall at particular angles on hills.

The check engine light will illuminate any time there is a failed EVAP system test. This will be indicated by the various on-board diagnostics trouble codes that are stored in the vehicle's memory. Also, in some models, there may be a popping sound accompanying the check engine light, as the leak detection pump continuously attempts to pressurize the fuel tank. A fuel tank leak may also cause difficulty starting the engine, a rough idle, and poor fuel mileage. When a fuel tank is simply corroded to the point of failure, the exterior tank condition rarely shows damage. The inside of the fuel tank will be rusted or corroded, and rust flakes or other debris may be floating in the fuel.

For most vehicles, the only symptom will be a check engine light or fuel tank filler cap light illuminating on the driver instrument cluster. This is to signal that there is an evaporative emissions (EVAP) leak. In some situations, the vehicle may take longer than normal to start, or, more rarely, the engine may not start at all. on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will refer to EVAP system failures such as a small or massive EVAP system leak. Lastly, the powertrain control module may notice a lean running condition, which could even lead to random and infrequent misfires.

How to diagnose a gas smell in a 2001 Acura CL?

When diagnosing a gas smell in your 2001 Acura CL, it's essential to adopt a methodical approach to ensure safety and effectiveness. Start by checking for fuel leaks, as these are often the most straightforward issues to identify. Inspect the fuel lines, tank, and connections for any signs of leakage, such as wet spots or a strong odor. Next, pay attention to the fuel injectors; if you notice a gas smell immediately after running the engine, this could indicate a leaking injector, which poses a significant fire risk and should be addressed without delay. Additionally, examine the Evaporative Emissions Control System, particularly around the fuel tank, as leaks here can trigger warning lights on your dashboard. Lastly, consider the exhaust system; a gas smell may suggest a breach in this closed-loop system, which could lead to more severe engine problems. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and resolve the source of the gas smell, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and functional.

What could be causing my 2001 Acura CL to smell like gas?

If your 2001 Acura CL is giving off a gas smell, it’s essential to investigate the underlying causes to ensure your safety and the vehicle's functionality. One common issue could be a fuel injector leak, which can lead to a strong gas odor immediately after running the engine. This situation is particularly hazardous, and it’s advisable to refrain from operating the vehicle until the injector is replaced. Another potential culprit is a leak in the fuel system, which may occur if gas has spilled during refueling or if there are damaged lines. If the smell persists after a fill-up, it could simply be residual fuel evaporating, but it’s wise to check for any leaks. Additionally, a loose or faulty gas cap can allow fumes to escape, so inspecting this component for proper sealing is a straightforward first step. Lastly, if you notice the gas smell while driving or after parking, it may indicate a more serious fuel system leak, which requires immediate attention due to the flammability of gasoline. Addressing these issues promptly not only enhances your vehicle's performance but also ensures your safety on the road.

How urgent is the gas smell in my 2001 Acura CL, and what should I do?

When you detect a gas smell in your 2001 Acura CL, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. Ignoring this warning sign can lead to serious safety hazards, including the risk of fire or explosion due to a fuel leak. The presence of a gas odor often indicates that fuel is escaping from the system, which could be due to a damaged fuel line, a faulty fuel injector, or other critical issues. It is crucial to refrain from starting the engine or using the vehicle until the problem is resolved, as this could exacerbate the risk of ignition. To ensure your safety and the proper functioning of your vehicle, seek immediate assistance from a qualified mechanic who can accurately diagnose the source of the gas smell and perform the necessary repairs. Taking prompt action not only protects you but also helps prevent further damage to your vehicle, making it imperative to address any signs of a gas leak without delay.

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