BMW 740Ld XDrive Smells Like Gas

Diagnosing Fuel Odor Issues in Your BMW 740Ld xDrive and Essential Safety Measures to Take

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
15% chance it's the
Gas Cap
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40% chance it's the
Emissions Control System
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45% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 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 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 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.

Troubleshooting Gas Smell in a BMW 740Ld xDrive

When you detect a gas smell in your BMW 740Ld xDrive, the first step is to inspect the gas cap. A loose or damaged gas cap can lead to fuel vapors escaping, so ensure it is securely tightened and in good condition. If the gas cap appears fine, examine the fuel system for any visible leaks, particularly around the fuel lines and injectors, as these are common culprits. Pay attention to the area under the vehicle for any signs of fuel pooling, especially after the car has been running. If the smell persists, consider checking the emissions control system, as issues here can also contribute to gas odors. Additionally, inspect the spark plugs; a loose or faulty spark plug can allow gas fumes to escape into the cabin. If you have access to diagnostic tools, running a scan for any error codes related to the fuel system or ignition can provide further insights. If these steps do not resolve the issue, it may be time to consult a qualified mechanic, as more complex problems like faulty wiring in the fuel pump may require professional attention.

What Could Cause a Gas Smell in a BMW 740Ld xDrive?

When dealing with a gas smell in your BMW 740Ld xDrive, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the first areas to inspect is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can allow fuel vapors to escape, creating a noticeable odor. Additionally, issues within the fuel system, such as faulty fuel injectors or leaks in the fuel lines, can lead to fuel escaping and causing a smell inside or around the vehicle. It's also worth checking the emissions control system, as malfunctions here can contribute to gas odors. If your vehicle is from the 2007–2012 model years, be aware that faulty wiring in the fuel pumps has been reported as a potential issue. Furthermore, fluid leaks from various components, including hoses and gaskets, can produce unusual smells, so a thorough inspection of the engine bay and undercarriage is advisable. Lastly, if you've recently topped off your fuel tank, the charcoal filter may have become saturated, leading to persistent gas smells that might require replacement. By systematically checking these areas, you can identify the source of the gas smell and take appropriate action to resolve the issue.

What Should You Do If Your BMW 740Ld xDrive Smells Like Gas?

If you notice a gas smell in your BMW 740Ld xDrive, it is essential to act quickly to ensure your safety and the integrity of your vehicle. The first step is to identify the source of the odor, which could stem from a faulty gas cap, a leak in the fuel system, or issues within the emissions control system. Ignoring this warning can lead to dangerous situations, including the risk of fire or engine damage. If you are unable to pinpoint the problem, seeking a professional inspection is advisable, as trained mechanics can diagnose and resolve issues that may not be apparent to the untrained eye. In some cases, simple DIY fixes, such as replacing a worn gasket or gas cap, can effectively eliminate the smell and prevent further complications. Additionally, inspecting the fuel injector for cracked O-rings or seals can help you identify potential leaks. By addressing the gas smell promptly, you not only enhance your safety but also maintain the performance and longevity of your BMW 740Ld xDrive.

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