2010 Hyundai Elantra Smells Like Gas

Identifying the Causes of Gas Smells in Your 2010 Hyundai Elantra and Essential Safety Measures

Find Repair Location
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 2010 Hyundai Elantra 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 efficiency.
  • 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 2010 Hyundai Elantra 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 2010 Hyundai Elantra?

To effectively diagnose a gas smell in your 2010 Hyundai Elantra, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex assessments. Begin by checking the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable source of fuel odors. If the cap is secure, inspect the fuel system for any visible leaks or damage, paying close attention to hoses and connections. Next, consider the evaporative emissions system, which can also contribute to gas smells if malfunctioning. If you still detect the odor after these checks, it’s crucial to avoid driving the vehicle, as this could pose safety risks. At this point, if the source remains elusive, seeking professional assistance from a mechanic is advisable to ensure a thorough diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address the issue, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and functional.

What are the common causes of a gas smell in a 2010 Hyundai Elantra?

When you detect a gas smell in your 2010 Hyundai Elantra, it's crucial to identify the source to ensure safety and vehicle performance. One of the first areas to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can lead to fuel vapors escaping, creating a noticeable odor. If the cap appears secure, inspect the fuel system for leaks, which can occur in fuel lines or injectors. Additionally, the emissions control system may be at fault, particularly if there are issues with the catalytic converter, which can emit a gas smell and trigger the check engine light. Another common culprit is the evaporative emissions system; a leak or overfilled fuel tank can cause fuel vapors to escape, resulting in a strong gas odor. If you encounter a trouble code P0455, it indicates a large evaporative emissions leak, which should be addressed promptly. By systematically checking these components, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the gas smell issue in your Elantra.

How urgent is it to address the gas smell in my 2010 Hyundai Elantra?

Addressing a gas smell in your 2010 Hyundai Elantra is of utmost urgency due to the serious safety risks it poses. A gas odor can signal various issues, including a faulty gas cap, fuel system malfunctions, or even a dangerous fuel leak. Ignoring these symptoms not only increases the risk of a fire hazard but also exposes you to harmful fumes that can affect your health. If you detect fuel pooling under your vehicle, it is critical to act immediately, as this could indicate a significant leak that requires prompt attention. By addressing the gas smell without delay, you not only protect your safety but also prevent further damage to your vehicle, which could lead to more costly repairs down the line. Therefore, if you notice a gas smell, it is highly advisable to seek professional assistance to accurately diagnose and resolve the issue, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.