2015 BMW 740Ld XDrive Smells Like Gas

Identifying the Causes of Gas Smells in Your 2015 BMW 740Ld xDrive and Essential Safety Measures

Find Repair Location
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 2015 BMW 740Ld xDrive 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 2015 BMW 740Ld xDrive 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

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 initial diagnostic steps should be taken for a 2015 BMW 740Ld xDrive that smells like gas?

When addressing a gas smell in your 2015 BMW 740Ld xDrive, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that begins with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex issues. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily allow fuel vapors to escape, creating a noticeable odor. If the cap is secure, move on to inspecting the fuel system for any visible leaks or damage in components such as fuel lines and injectors. Next, evaluate the emissions control system, as any malfunctions or leaks here can also contribute to gas smells. Additionally, it's wise to check for any recalls associated with your vehicle, particularly those related to the EGR cooler, which could lead to more severe issues if not addressed. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively identify the source of the gas odor and take the necessary steps to resolve it.

What are the common causes of a gas smell in a 2015 BMW 740Ld xDrive?

When you detect a gas smell in your 2015 BMW 740Ld xDrive, it's essential to investigate several common issues that could be the source of the odor. Start by checking the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap can easily allow fuel vapors to escape, leading to noticeable smells inside the vehicle. If the gas cap appears secure, the next area to examine is the fuel system itself. Look for any signs of leaks or malfunctions in the fuel lines, injectors, or fuel pump, as these can also contribute to gas odors. Additionally, consider the emissions control system, which plays a crucial role in managing fuel vapors; any faults here could result in a gas smell. Lastly, inspect the fuel tank for leaks, as this is a serious issue that not only causes odors but can also pose significant safety risks. Addressing these potential problems promptly is vital, as neglecting a gas smell can lead to health hazards and further vehicle damage.

How urgent is it to address a gas smell in a 2015 BMW 740Ld xDrive?

When you detect a gas smell in your 2015 BMW 740Ld xDrive, it is imperative to act swiftly. A strong odor of gasoline inside the cabin often signals a fuel leak, which can lead to severe safety hazards, including the risk of fire. Ignoring this warning can escalate the situation, resulting in not only dangerous conditions for you and your passengers but also potentially costly repairs if the issue worsens. The urgency of addressing a gas smell cannot be overstated; it is essential to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic without delay. This proactive approach will help identify the source of the smell and facilitate necessary repairs, ensuring the safety and reliability of your vehicle. Remember, timely intervention is key to preventing accidents and safeguarding your investment.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.

2015 BMW 740Ld xDrive: Causes of Gas Smell & Repair Guide