2015 Honda Pilot Smells Like Gas

Common Causes of Gas Smells in Your 2015 Honda Pilot and Essential Safety Measures to Take

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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
0%
45% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2015 Honda Pilot 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 2015 Honda Pilot 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 2015 Honda Pilot?

When dealing with a gas smell in your 2015 Honda Pilot, it's crucial to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to ensure safety and effective resolution. Start with a thorough visual inspection of the engine bay and undercarriage, looking for any signs of fuel leaks, as these can often be the most immediate and visible indicators of a problem. Next, focus on the fuel injectors; if they are malfunctioning, they can emit a raw gas smell. Inspecting the high-pressure gas pump is also essential, as issues here can contribute to the odor. If these initial checks do not reveal the source of the gas smell, it may be time to consult a professional mechanic who can provide a more in-depth diagnosis. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify the cause of the gas smell and take the necessary steps to address it, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable.

What could be causing my 2015 Honda Pilot to smell like gas?

If your 2015 Honda Pilot is emitting a gas smell, it’s essential to investigate several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits could be a gasoline leak, which may occur in the engine bay or undercarriage, presenting a serious fire hazard. Additionally, issues with the gas cap, such as improper sealing or damage, can lead to fuel vapors escaping. The fuel system itself, including components like fuel injectors and the high-pressure gas pump, may also be malfunctioning, potentially causing a raw gas smell without triggering a check engine light. Furthermore, problems with the emissions control system or a failing catalytic converter can contribute to unusual odors and may require immediate attention. If you notice a burning smell, it could indicate that fluids are leaking onto hot engine parts, which is another issue to address promptly. Given the complexity of these potential problems, it’s advisable to conduct a thorough inspection or consult a qualified mechanic to pinpoint the exact cause and ensure your vehicle remains safe and functional.

How urgent is it to address a gas smell in my 2015 Honda Pilot?

Addressing a gas smell in your 2015 Honda Pilot is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that requires immediate attention. Gas leaks pose a significant risk of fire or explosion, particularly in the confined space of a vehicle, making it essential to act quickly. Additionally, inhaling gas fumes can lead to serious health issues, including dizziness, headaches, and nausea, which can escalate with prolonged exposure. Beyond the immediate dangers, ignoring a gas smell can result in further damage to your vehicle's fuel system, leading to expensive repairs down the line. Therefore, if you detect a gas odor, it is imperative to seek professional assistance without delay to ensure your safety and the integrity of your Honda Pilot.

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