2022 Kia Seltos Smells Like Gas

Common Causes of Fuel Odors in Your 2022 Kia Seltos and Essential Safety Precautions

Find Repair Location
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 2022 Kia Seltos 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 2022 Kia Seltos 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 2022 Kia Seltos?

When diagnosing a gas smell in your 2022 Kia Seltos, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by inspecting the area beneath your vehicle for any visible fuel leaks, as this can provide immediate insight into potential issues. Next, ensure that the fuel cap is securely tightened, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit for gas odors. Following this, examine the fuel lines for any signs of cracks or damage, as these can lead to fuel escaping and creating unpleasant smells. Additionally, check the fuel injectors for leaks, as faulty injectors can also contribute to gas odors inside the cabin. Don’t overlook the charcoal canister, which plays a crucial role in managing evaporative emissions; any damage or leaks here can result in noticeable gas smells. Finally, inspect the exhaust system for any leaks or damage, as these can also lead to gas odors permeating the vehicle. By methodically following these steps, you can effectively identify and address the source of the gas smell in your Kia Seltos.

What could be causing a gas smell in my 2022 Kia Seltos?

If you're detecting a gas smell in your 2022 Kia Seltos, it's crucial to investigate the underlying causes to ensure both your safety and the vehicle's performance. One of the most common culprits is a fuel leak, which can occur in various areas such as the fuel tank, fuel lines, or fuel injectors. Inspecting these components for any signs of leakage can be a good starting point. Additionally, check the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can allow fuel vapors to escape, leading to a noticeable odor inside the cabin. Another area to consider is the evaporative emissions system, which is designed to prevent fuel vapors from escaping into the atmosphere. If this system is malfunctioning, it could be the source of the smell. Furthermore, an exhaust system leak can also introduce gas odors into the vehicle, so examining the exhaust components for any damage or holes is advisable. Lastly, if you've recently overfilled your gas tank, this could result in fuel spilling and creating a lingering smell. Addressing these issues promptly is essential, and while some checks can be done at home, consulting a qualified mechanic for a thorough inspection is always a wise choice.

How urgent is it to address a gas smell in a 2022 Kia Seltos?

Addressing a gas smell in your 2022 Kia Seltos is not just a matter of convenience; it is a pressing safety concern that should be treated with the utmost urgency. Gasoline is highly flammable, and even a faint odor can indicate a serious leak in the fuel system, which poses a significant fire hazard. Ignoring this warning could lead to catastrophic consequences, including the risk of a vehicle fire. Additionally, inhaling gasoline fumes can have detrimental effects on your health, leading to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea. These health risks, combined with the potential for further damage to your vehicle, underscore the necessity of immediate action. If you detect a gas smell, it is crucial to investigate the source and, if necessary, consult a qualified mechanic to ensure the safety of both yourself and your vehicle. Taking prompt action not only protects your health but also preserves the integrity of your Kia Seltos, making it essential to prioritize this issue without delay.

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.

Why Your 2022 Kia Seltos Smells Like Gas: Causes & Solutions