2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Smells Like Gas

Troubleshooting Gas Smells in Your 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe: Causes and Solutions for a Safe Drive

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2020 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 2020 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.

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 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe?

When you detect a gas smell in your 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe, it's crucial to approach the situation methodically to ensure safety and effective diagnosis. Start by prioritizing safety; if the odor is strong inside the vehicle, it’s essential to address it immediately due to the risk of fire. Begin your inspection by checking for visible fuel leaks around the fuel lines, injectors, and tank. Look for any signs of wetness or staining that could indicate a leak. Next, examine the evaporative emissions system, focusing on the charcoal canister and purge valve, as issues here can also lead to gas odors. Don’t overlook the exhaust system; inspect for cracks or damage that might allow unburned fuel to escape. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner can help you identify any diagnostic trouble codes that may point to underlying issues with the fuel or emissions systems. Finally, assess the overall performance of your engine, noting any irregularities that could suggest a problem. If these steps do not reveal the source of the gas smell, or if you feel uncertain about any findings, consulting a professional mechanic is advisable to ensure your vehicle is safe and functioning properly.

What could be causing a gas smell in my 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe?

When you detect a gas smell in your 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe, it’s crucial to investigate the underlying causes to ensure both safety and vehicle performance. One of the most common culprits is a fuel leak, which can stem from damaged fuel lines, faulty fuel injectors, or issues with the fuel tank. Additionally, a loose gas cap can create a noticeable odor, so always check that it is securely tightened after refueling. Another potential source of the smell could be a malfunction in the evaporative emissions control system, designed to manage fuel vapors. Furthermore, an exhaust system leak, such as a crack in the exhaust manifold or a damaged catalytic converter, may allow gas odors to infiltrate the cabin. Lastly, engine-related issues, including problems with the carburetor or fuel injection system, can also contribute to the smell. If you notice a persistent gas odor, it’s advisable to conduct a thorough inspection or consult a qualified mechanic to diagnose and rectify the issue promptly.

How urgent is it to address a gas smell in a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe?

When you detect a gas smell in your 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe, it is imperative to act swiftly due to the serious implications associated with this issue. The presence of gasoline fumes can indicate a fuel leak, which not only poses a significant fire hazard but also threatens your safety and that of others around you. Inhaling these fumes can lead to immediate health concerns, including dizziness and nausea, and prolonged exposure can result in more severe health complications. Additionally, ignoring the smell can lead to further damage to your vehicle's fuel system, potentially resulting in costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely intervention. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize a professional inspection to accurately diagnose and resolve the source of the gas smell, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and operational. Taking these steps not only protects your health and safety but also preserves the integrity of your vehicle, making it essential to address any gas smell without delay.

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