2004 INFINITI G35 Smells Like Gas

Identifying Potential Causes of Gas Smells in Your 2004 INFINITI G35 and Essential Safety Measures

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2004 INFINITI G35 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 2004 INFINITI G35 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 2004 INFINITI G35?

When dealing with a gas smell in your 2004 INFINITI G35, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the underlying issue effectively. Start with a thorough visual inspection of the vehicle, focusing on areas where fuel leaks are most likely to occur, such as around the fuel tank, fuel lines, and injectors. Next, examine the evaporative emissions system, paying close attention to the charcoal canister and purge valve, as any damage or leaks here can contribute to the odor. Additionally, inspect the exhaust system for cracks or leaks that might allow gas fumes to enter the cabin. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner can also be beneficial; it will help you check for any error codes that may indicate problems with the fuel system or emissions. Finally, assess the engine's performance for signs of misfiring or running too rich, which can lead to unburned fuel in the exhaust. If these steps do not reveal the source of the gas smell, seeking a professional inspection may be necessary to ensure your vehicle is safe and functioning correctly. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the gas smell issue in your INFINITI G35.

What could be causing my 2004 INFINITI G35 to smell like gas?

If you're detecting a gas smell in your 2004 INFINITI G35, it's crucial to investigate the underlying causes to ensure your safety and the vehicle's performance. One of the most frequent culprits is a fuel leak, which can stem from damaged fuel lines, leaking fuel injectors, or a compromised fuel tank seal. Additionally, a faulty or loose fuel cap can allow vapors to escape, leading to noticeable odors inside the cabin. Another area to consider is the evaporative emissions system, which manages fuel vapors; any malfunction here can contribute to the gas smell. Furthermore, an exhaust system leak, particularly near the engine, may also introduce fuel odors into the vehicle. Lastly, if you've recently overfilled your gas tank, spilled gasoline can create a strong smell. Addressing these issues promptly is essential, and while some DIY fixes may be possible, consulting a professional mechanic for a thorough inspection is often the best course of action to ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable.

How urgent is it to address the gas smell in my 2004 INFINITI G35?

Addressing a gas smell in your 2004 INFINITI G35 is not just a matter of convenience; it is an urgent safety concern that should be prioritized. Gas leaks can lead to catastrophic fire hazards, putting both you and others at risk. Moreover, the inhalation of gas fumes can have serious health implications, including dizziness, nausea, and headaches, which can impair your ability to drive safely. Ignoring this issue could also result in significant damage to your vehicle's fuel system, leading to costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely intervention. Therefore, if you detect a gas smell, it is crucial to investigate the source immediately and take appropriate action to ensure your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.

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