2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Smells Like Gas

Identifying the Causes of Gas Smells in Your 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe and Essential Safety Measures

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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 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe 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.

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 of a gas smell in a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe, and how should I diagnose the issue?

When faced with a gas smell in your 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the underlying issue. Start with a thorough visual inspection of the vehicle, focusing on the fuel system components such as the fuel lines, injectors, and tank for any signs of leaks or damage. If you notice any fuel pooling or wet spots, this could indicate a fuel leak that needs immediate attention. Next, check for any warning lights on your dashboard, particularly the check engine light, as this can provide valuable diagnostic codes when scanned with an OBD-II tool. If the light is illuminated, it may point to specific issues like a faulty fuel injector or problems within the evaporative emissions system. Additionally, consider whether you've recently overfilled the gas tank, as this can lead to fuel spillage and a lingering odor. If these initial checks do not reveal the source of the smell, it may be time to consult a professional mechanic who can conduct a more in-depth inspection, ensuring that your vehicle remains safe and performs optimally. By following this structured approach, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the gas smell and take appropriate action.

What could be causing a gas smell in my 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe?

If you're experiencing a gas smell in your 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe, it's essential to identify the underlying issues to ensure your safety and the vehicle's performance. A fuel leak is often the primary culprit, which can occur due to damaged fuel lines, leaking fuel injectors, or a faulty fuel tank cap. Additionally, problems with the evaporative emissions system can lead to the release of fuel vapors, contributing to the odor inside the vehicle. Another potential source of the gas smell could be a leak in the exhaust system, such as a cracked exhaust manifold or a damaged catalytic converter, which can allow gas-like odors to enter the cabin. Overfilling the gas tank is a common mistake that can also result in gasoline spilling and creating a strong smell. Lastly, issues with engine components, including fuel injectors and spark plugs, may lead to a gas odor as well. It's crucial to address these problems promptly, so consider having your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and resolve the issue effectively.

How urgent is it to address the gas smell in my 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe?

Addressing a gas smell in your 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that requires immediate attention. Gas leaks pose significant risks, including the potential for fires or explosions, which can have devastating consequences. Additionally, inhaling gas fumes can lead to serious health issues, such as dizziness, nausea, and headaches, which can escalate with prolonged exposure. Beyond safety and health risks, neglecting a gas smell can result in further damage to your vehicle, leading to costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely intervention. Therefore, if you detect a gas smell, it is essential to act quickly—either by inspecting the vehicle yourself or seeking professional help—to ensure your safety, protect your health, and maintain the integrity of your car.

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