2014 Ford Fusion Smells Like Gas

Identifying Potential Causes of Gas Smells in Your 2014 Ford Fusion and How to Address Them

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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
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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 2014 Ford Fusion 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 2014 Ford Fusion 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 of a gas smell in a 2014 Ford Fusion, and how should I diagnose the issue?

When faced with a gas smell in your 2014 Ford Fusion, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start with a visual inspection of the fuel system components, looking for any obvious signs of leaks or damage. Pay particular attention to the gas cap, as a poor seal can lead to fuel vapors escaping, which is a common and easily fixable issue. Ensure the gas cap is securely tightened, as this simple step can often resolve the problem. If the smell persists after checking these basics, it may indicate more complex issues such as a gasoline leak from the fuel lines or problems within the engine's fuel or ignition systems. In such cases, it’s advisable to seek professional help, where a mechanic can perform a thorough inspection, potentially including a smoke test to pinpoint any hidden leaks. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently diagnose and address the gas smell in your vehicle, ensuring both safety and performance.

What are the common causes of a gas smell in a 2014 Ford Fusion?

When you detect a gas smell in your 2014 Ford Fusion, it’s crucial to identify the underlying cause to ensure both safety and vehicle performance. One of the most common culprits is fuel leaks, which can occur from damaged fuel lines, a compromised fuel tank, or malfunctioning fuel injectors. Additionally, issues with the evaporative emissions system, such as a faulty charcoal canister or purge valve, can lead to gas odors as they fail to contain fuel vapors properly. Another frequent issue is a faulty fuel cap; if it’s loose, damaged, or missing, it can allow vapors to escape, creating a noticeable smell inside the cabin. Furthermore, exhaust system leaks, which may arise from a cracked manifold or a damaged catalytic converter, can also contribute to the gas odor. Lastly, engine-related problems, including malfunctioning fuel injectors or carburetors, can emit a gas smell as well. Addressing these issues promptly is essential, and while some DIY fixes may be possible, consulting a qualified mechanic for a thorough inspection is advisable to ensure the problem is accurately diagnosed and resolved.

How urgent is it to address a gas smell in a 2014 Ford Fusion?

When you detect a gas smell in your 2014 Ford Fusion, it is imperative to act swiftly. The presence of gasoline odors often signals a fuel leak, which not only poses a significant fire hazard but also compromises your safety on the road. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious health risks, as inhaling gasoline fumes can result in dizziness, headaches, and nausea, with prolonged exposure potentially causing more severe health complications. Additionally, neglecting a gas smell can lead to increased fuel consumption and may cause damage to your vehicle's engine or other critical components. Therefore, if you notice a strong gas odor, it is crucial to cease driving immediately and consult a qualified mechanic to diagnose and rectify the issue. Taking these steps not only protects your health and safety but also ensures the longevity and proper functioning of your vehicle.

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