2005 Ford Excursion Smells Like Gas

Diagnosing Fuel Odor Issues in Your 2005 Ford Excursion and Essential Safety Measures to Take

Find Repair Location
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
0%
45% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2005 Ford Excursion 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 2005 Ford Excursion 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 steps should I take to diagnose the gas smell in my 2005 Ford Excursion?

To effectively diagnose the gas smell in your 2005 Ford Excursion, begin with a thorough visual inspection of the vehicle's undercarriage and fuel system. Look for any obvious signs of fuel leaks, such as dripping fuel or wet spots, which can indicate a more immediate issue. Next, examine the fuel lines and connections for any damage, corrosion, or loose fittings that could be contributing to the odor. Pay special attention to the fuel tank, as any leaks or damage here can allow gas fumes to escape. Additionally, inspect the fuel injector O-rings for wear, as compromised seals can lead to gas smells. The fuel filter should also be checked for leaks or clogs, as these can exacerbate the problem. Don't overlook the evaporative emissions system, which is designed to contain gas vapors; any malfunctions here can result in noticeable odors. The charcoal canister, responsible for filtering fuel vapors, should be inspected for damage or saturation. Lastly, ensure that the fuel cap is securely sealed, as a loose cap can easily allow gas fumes to escape. If these steps do not reveal the source of the smell, it may be time to consult a mechanic for a more comprehensive diagnosis. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and address the source of the gas smell in your vehicle.

What are the common causes of a gas smell in a 2005 Ford Excursion?

If you notice a gas smell in your 2005 Ford Excursion, there are several common culprits you can investigate before seeking professional help. Start by checking the fuel cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily lead to fuel vapors escaping, creating a noticeable odor. Next, inspect the charcoal canister, as issues here can also result in a fuel vapor smell. It's essential to look for any leaks in the engine bay, particularly around the exhaust system, as these can contribute to the gas smell. Pay attention to the exhaust port, as a foul odor, such as a rotten egg scent, may indicate a malfunction that needs addressing. Additionally, if the gas tank is near empty, the smell may become more pronounced, especially when stopping after driving. Lastly, consider the emissions control and fuel systems, as problems in these areas can also lead to a gas smell. By systematically checking these components, you can identify the source of the issue and take appropriate action to resolve it.

How urgent is it to address the gas smell in my 2005 Ford Excursion?

When you detect a gas smell in your 2005 Ford Excursion, it is essential to act swiftly due to the serious risks involved. Ignoring this warning can lead to catastrophic outcomes, including the possibility of a fire, as gasoline is highly flammable and can ignite from even the smallest spark. Additionally, the health implications of inhaling gasoline fumes are significant; prolonged exposure can result in dizziness, headaches, and nausea, which can impair your ability to drive safely. Furthermore, gasoline leaks pose environmental hazards, potentially contaminating soil and water sources, which can have long-lasting effects on local ecosystems. Therefore, addressing a gas smell is not just a matter of vehicle maintenance; it is a critical safety issue that requires immediate attention to protect yourself, your passengers, and the environment.

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.