2018 Honda Fit Smells Like Gas

Common Causes of Gas Smells in Your 2018 Honda Fit and How to Address Them Safely

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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
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions Control System
0%
45% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2018 Honda Fit 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 2018 Honda Fit 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 2018 Honda Fit?

When dealing with a gas smell in your 2018 Honda Fit, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the underlying issue effectively. Start by visually inspecting the fuel system for any obvious leaks, focusing on components like fuel lines, injectors, and the fuel tank. A common culprit can be a faulty fuel cap, so ensure it is securely tightened and free from damage. If the smell persists, utilize an OBD-II scanner to check for any error codes that may indicate problems with the fuel system or emissions. Next, examine the evaporative emissions system, including the charcoal canister and purge valve, as malfunctions here can also lead to gas odors. Additionally, inspect the exhaust system for leaks, as these can sometimes mimic a gas smell. Finally, monitor your engine's performance; issues such as rough idling or decreased fuel efficiency can contribute to the problem. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the source of the gas smell in your vehicle.

What are the common causes of a gas smell in a 2018 Honda Fit?

When you notice a gas smell in your 2018 Honda Fit, it's essential to understand the potential causes to address the issue effectively. A fuel leak is often the primary suspect, which can stem from various components like fuel injectors, fuel lines, or the fuel tank itself. Additionally, a faulty fuel cap—whether it's loose, damaged, or missing—can allow gas vapors to escape, contributing to the odor. Another area to consider is the evaporative emissions system, which is responsible for containing and recycling fuel vapors; any malfunction in this system can lead to noticeable gas smells. Moreover, leaks in the exhaust system, particularly around the catalytic converter or muffler, may also produce a gas-like odor inside the vehicle. Lastly, engine performance issues, such as running too rich, can result in an excess of fuel in the air-fuel mixture, leading to a gas smell. It's crucial to address these concerns promptly, and if the smell persists, seeking the expertise of a qualified mechanic for a thorough inspection is highly advisable.

How urgent is it to address the gas smell in my 2018 Honda Fit?

Addressing a gas smell in your 2018 Honda Fit is of utmost urgency due to the serious safety risks it poses. Gasoline is highly flammable, and even a minor leak can lead to a significant fire hazard, making immediate action essential. Additionally, inhaling gasoline fumes can have detrimental effects on your health, causing symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and nausea, which can escalate with prolonged exposure. A gas smell may indicate a leak in the fuel system, potentially leading to decreased fuel efficiency and engine damage if left unchecked. Moreover, ignoring this issue can result in more extensive and costly repairs down the line, making it not only a safety concern but also a financial one. Therefore, it is crucial to address any gas smell in your vehicle promptly to ensure your safety, protect your health, and maintain the proper functioning of your Honda Fit.

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