2012 Honda CR-V Smells Like Gas

Identifying Potential Causes of Gas Smells in Your 2012 Honda CR-V and Safety Precautions to Take

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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 2012 Honda CR-V 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 2012 Honda CR-V 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 steps to diagnose a gas smell in a 2012 Honda CR-V?

When diagnosing a gas smell in your 2012 Honda CR-V, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes safety and efficiency. Start by checking for visible leaks under the vehicle, as this can quickly indicate a problem. Next, inspect the fuel lines and connections for any signs of damage or corrosion, as these are common culprits for gas odors. Don't overlook the fuel tank; any leaks or damage here can lead to significant issues. Additionally, examine the fuel injector and fuel filter to ensure they are functioning correctly, as malfunctions in these components can contribute to the smell. It's also crucial to assess the EVAP system, which is designed to prevent fuel vapors from escaping, and check for any exhaust leaks that might allow fumes to enter the cabin. If these steps do not reveal the source of the gas smell, consulting a mechanic is advisable for a more thorough inspection. This methodical approach not only helps in identifying the issue but also ensures that you address the simplest problems first before moving on to more complex diagnostics.

What could be causing a gas smell in my 2012 Honda CR-V?

If you're detecting a gas smell in your 2012 Honda CR-V, it's crucial to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a fuel leak, which can stem from damaged fuel lines, leaking fuel injectors, or even a compromised fuel tank. This issue not only poses a risk to your vehicle's performance but also presents safety hazards, making it imperative to investigate further. Another frequent cause is a faulty fuel cap; if it's loose, damaged, or missing, it can disrupt the pressure in the fuel system, allowing vapors to escape. Additionally, issues with the evaporative emissions system can lead to gas odors, as this system is designed to capture and recirculate fuel vapors. It's also worth considering the exhaust system; a leak in components like the exhaust pipe or muffler can sometimes mimic a gas smell inside the cabin. Lastly, overfilling the gas tank can result in fuel spillage, contributing to the odor. If you suspect any of these issues, conducting a thorough inspection or consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable to ensure your vehicle remains safe and functional.

How urgent is it to address the gas smell in my 2012 Honda CR-V?

Addressing a gas smell in your 2012 Honda CR-V is not just a matter of convenience; it is an urgent safety concern that requires immediate attention. Gas leaks can create a significant fire hazard, putting you and your passengers at risk. Additionally, inhaling gasoline fumes can lead to serious health issues, including dizziness, headaches, and nausea, which can impair your ability to drive safely. Beyond the immediate dangers, neglecting a gas smell can result in further damage to your vehicle's fuel system, leading to costly repairs down the line. Therefore, if you detect a gas odor, it is imperative to investigate the source and resolve the issue as soon as possible to ensure your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.

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