INFINITI G20 Smells Like Gas

Common Causes of Fuel Odors in Your INFINITI G20 and Essential Safety Measures to Take

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 INFINITI G20 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 INFINITI G20 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.

Troubleshooting Gas Smell in an INFINITI G20

When troubleshooting a gas smell in your INFINITI G20, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is often the simplest and most common cause of fuel vapors escaping. Ensure it is securely tightened and in good condition. Next, examine the fuel system for any visible leaks or signs of malfunction, as these can lead to significant safety hazards. If the gas smell persists, turn your attention to the ignition system; faulty spark plugs can prevent proper fuel combustion, resulting in an odor. Lastly, check for exhaust leaks, as these can introduce harmful gases into the cabin. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively identify and resolve the source of the gas smell, ensuring the safety and reliability of your vehicle.

How to Diagnose and Fix Gas Smell Issues in an INFINITI G20?

When addressing gas smell issues in your INFINITI G20, it's important to recognize the common problems that may be contributing to the odor. A frequent source of the issue is the fuel system, where rubber hoses can degrade over time, leading to leaks that produce a noticeable gas smell. If the odor is primarily inside the vehicle, the fuel sending unit might not be properly sealed, allowing fumes to enter the cabin. Additionally, worn or malfunctioning spark plugs can fail to ignite fuel correctly, which can also result in a gas smell. It's equally important to inspect the exhaust system, as leaks in this area can mimic the scent of gasoline. If the smell is particularly strong near the back seat, checking the o-ring around the fuel cap is advisable, as a damaged o-ring can permit gas vapors to escape. By understanding these common issues, you can effectively diagnose and address gas smell problems, ensuring a safer and more pleasant driving experience.

What to Do If Your INFINITI G20 Smells Like Gas?

If your INFINITI G20 emits a gas smell, it’s crucial to act promptly, as neglecting this issue can lead to serious safety risks and potential damage to your vehicle. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can allow fuel vapors to escape, creating a noticeable odor. Ensure it is securely tightened and replace it if necessary. Next, inspect the fuel system for leaks, as these can pose fire hazards and should be addressed immediately by a professional if found. Additionally, consider the emissions control system; a failing catalytic converter can not only lead to unpleasant smells but also affect your vehicle's performance and emissions compliance. An exhaust leak is another potential culprit, which can be identified by checking for stronger odors inside the cabin. Lastly, engine issues such as a faulty oxygen sensor can exacerbate fuel smells, indicating that the engine is not operating efficiently. By taking these steps seriously and addressing them without delay, you can maintain the safety and functionality of your INFINITI G20 while preventing more costly repairs down the line.

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