2007 Honda Accord Smells Like Gas

Common Causes of Fuel Odors in Your 2007 Honda Accord and Essential Safety Precautions

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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
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45% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2007 Honda Accord 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 2007 Honda Accord 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 are the potential causes and diagnostic steps for a gas smell in a 2007 Honda Accord?

When dealing with a gas smell in your 2007 Honda Accord, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start with the simplest solution by checking the gas cap; ensure it is securely tightened and free from damage, as a loose or faulty cap is a common culprit for fuel vapor leaks. If the gas cap is in good condition, proceed to inspect the fuel system for any visible leaks or damage, particularly around the fuel lines and connections, as these can lead to significant odor issues. Next, utilize a diagnostic tool to scan for error codes, focusing on those related to the emissions control system, which can provide insights into potential malfunctions affecting the vehicle's performance. Additionally, examine the EVAP system components, especially the vent valve on the charcoal canister, as faults here can also contribute to a gas smell. Finally, maintaining your vehicle through regular checks, such as replacing the air filter and assessing the mass airflow sensor, can help prevent future issues. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the gas smell problem in your Honda Accord.

What are the common causes of a gas smell in a 2007 Honda Accord?

When you detect a gas smell in your 2007 Honda Accord, it’s crucial to identify the underlying issues to ensure your safety and the vehicle's performance. One of the most frequent culprits is a faulty gas cap; if it’s loose, damaged, or not sealing properly, it can allow fuel vapors to escape, creating a noticeable odor. Additionally, problems within the fuel system, such as leaks in the fuel lines or a malfunctioning fuel injector, can also lead to a gas smell. Another area to investigate is the emissions control system; a failing catalytic converter can contribute to the odor as well. Lastly, the PCV hose may be permeated with fuel vapors, necessitating its replacement to eliminate the smell. Addressing these issues promptly is essential, as neglecting a gas smell can lead to serious safety hazards, including the risk of fire or explosion. Therefore, if you notice a strong gasoline odor, it’s important to conduct a thorough inspection or consult a professional to diagnose and resolve the problem effectively.

How urgent is it to address the gas smell in my 2007 Honda Accord?

Addressing a gas smell in your 2007 Honda Accord is not just a matter of convenience; it is an urgent safety concern that should not be overlooked. Gas leaks can lead to catastrophic outcomes, including the risk of fire, which endangers not only your life but also the lives of others around you. Moreover, the inhalation of gas fumes poses serious health risks, with symptoms ranging from dizziness and headaches to more severe complications with prolonged exposure. Beyond safety and health implications, neglecting this issue can also result in decreased fuel efficiency and potential engine damage, leading to costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it is imperative to take immediate action if you detect a gas smell in your vehicle, ensuring both your safety and the longevity of your Honda Accord.

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2007 Honda Accord Smells Like Gas? Causes & Solutions