2011 Acura RDX Smells Like Gas

Common Causes of Gas Smells in Your 2011 Acura RDX and Essential Safety Measures to Take

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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
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45% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2011 Acura RDX 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 system pressure.
  • 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 2011 Acura RDX 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.

What are the potential causes and diagnostic steps for a gas smell in a 2011 Acura RDX?

When dealing with a gas smell in your 2011 Acura RDX, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start with a visual inspection of the vehicle, looking for any obvious signs of fuel leaks beneath the car or around the engine compartment. Next, check the fuel lines and connections for any visible damage or leaks, as these are common culprits. If everything appears intact, focus on the fuel injectors, ensuring they are functioning correctly and free from leaks. Additionally, examine the evaporative emissions system, particularly the charcoal canister, as issues here can also lead to gas odors. Don't overlook the exhaust system; any leaks or damage could contribute to the smell inside the vehicle. Lastly, ensure that the gas cap is securely sealed and not damaged, as a loose cap can allow fuel vapors to escape. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the source of the gas smell, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and functional. If the issue persists after these checks, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable for a more thorough inspection.

What could be causing my 2011 Acura RDX to smell like gas?

If your 2011 Acura RDX is emitting a gas smell, it’s crucial to identify the underlying issues to ensure both safety and vehicle performance. One common culprit could be a fuel leak, which may originate from damaged components like fuel lines, injectors, or even the fuel tank itself. Additionally, a faulty fuel injector can leak fuel into the engine compartment, contributing to the odor. Another potential source is the evaporative emissions system, designed to manage fuel vapor release; any malfunction here can lead to noticeable gas smells. Don’t overlook the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap can allow fuel vapors to escape. Lastly, issues within the exhaust system, such as leaks or problems with the catalytic converter, can also produce a gas-like odor. Addressing these issues promptly is essential, and consulting a qualified mechanic for a thorough inspection is highly recommended to pinpoint and resolve the source of the smell effectively.

How urgent is it to address the gas smell in my 2011 Acura RDX?

Addressing a gas smell in your 2011 Acura RDX is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that requires immediate attention. Gas leaks can lead to catastrophic fire hazards, putting both you and your vehicle at significant risk. Moreover, inhaling gas fumes poses serious health threats, including dizziness, headaches, and nausea, which can escalate to more severe health issues with prolonged exposure. Ignoring this warning sign can also result in extensive damage to your vehicle's fuel system, leading to costly repairs that could have been avoided with prompt action. Therefore, if you detect a gas smell, it is essential to investigate the source and address the issue without delay to protect your safety, health, and the integrity of your vehicle.

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2011 Acura RDX Smells Like Gas? Causes & Solutions