2016 Dodge Journey Smells Like Gas

Diagnosing Fuel Odor Issues in Your 2016 Dodge Journey and Essential Safety Measures

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2016 Dodge Journey 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 2016 Dodge Journey 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.

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 2016 Dodge Journey?

When dealing with a gas smell in your 2016 Dodge Journey, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start by inspecting for visible fuel leaks, as these can often be the most straightforward issues to spot. Look under the vehicle for any signs of fuel pooling or wet spots, which may indicate a leaking fuel line or injector. Next, check the fuel cap; a loose or damaged cap can allow gas vapors to escape, creating a noticeable odor. If these initial checks do not reveal the problem, utilize an OBD-II scanner to look for error codes that may highlight issues within the engine or emissions systems. Pay particular attention to the evaporative emissions system, as components like the charcoal canister or purge valve can fail and lead to gas smells. Additionally, examine the exhaust system for any leaks or damage, as these can sometimes mimic the scent of gasoline. Finally, monitor your vehicle's overall performance for any irregularities, such as decreased fuel efficiency or unusual noises, which could signal deeper engine issues. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently diagnose and address the source of the gas smell in your Dodge Journey.

What could be causing my 2016 Dodge Journey to smell like gas?

If your 2016 Dodge Journey is giving off a gas smell, it’s crucial to identify the underlying cause to ensure both safety and vehicle performance. One of the most common culprits is a fuel leak, which can occur anywhere in the fuel system, from the tank to the injectors. Inspecting the fuel lines and connections for any signs of leakage is a good starting point. Another potential issue could be a faulty fuel injector, which may not be delivering fuel properly, leading to an odor due to incomplete combustion. Additionally, the evaporative emissions system plays a vital role in containing fuel vapors; any leaks or malfunctions here can also result in a noticeable gas smell. Don’t overlook the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap can allow vapors to escape, creating a strong odor. Lastly, consider checking the exhaust system for leaks or damage, as these can sometimes mimic a gas smell. Addressing these issues promptly not only enhances your vehicle's safety but also improves its efficiency, making it essential for any DIY enthusiast to investigate these common problems.

How urgent is it to address the gas smell in my 2016 Dodge Journey?

Addressing a gas smell in your 2016 Dodge Journey is not just a matter of convenience; it is an urgent safety concern that should not be overlooked. The presence of gas fumes can indicate a leak, which poses a significant fire hazard that endangers both you and others around you. Additionally, inhaling these fumes can lead to serious health issues, including dizziness, headaches, and nausea, which can escalate with prolonged exposure. Beyond immediate health and safety risks, neglecting this issue can result in further damage to your vehicle, leading to costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it is imperative to take any gas smell seriously and seek professional assistance as soon as possible to ensure your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.

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