2011 Mazda 6 Smells Like Gas

Identifying Potential Causes of Gas Smells in Your 2011 Mazda 6 and How to Address Them

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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 2011 Mazda 6 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 2011 Mazda 6 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 2011 Mazda 6?

When dealing with a gas smell in your 2011 Mazda 6, it's crucial to follow a methodical diagnostic approach to accurately identify the source of the issue. Begin by checking the fuel cap, ensuring it is tightly secured and in good condition, as a loose or damaged cap can lead to gas vapors escaping. Next, perform a visual inspection for any signs of fuel leaks around the fuel tank, fuel lines, and injectors. If no leaks are apparent, use an OBD-II scanner to check for error codes that may point to problems within the fuel system or emissions components. Pay special attention to the evaporative emissions system, inspecting the charcoal canister and purge valve for any signs of damage or leaks. Additionally, examine the exhaust system for any cracks or damaged gaskets that could be contributing to the gas smell. Lastly, keep an eye on your fuel consumption for any sudden changes, as this can provide further insights into potential issues. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the gas odor in your vehicle.

What could be causing my 2011 Mazda 6 to smell like gas?

If your 2011 Mazda 6 is emitting a gas smell, it’s crucial to identify the underlying issues to ensure your safety and the vehicle's performance. One common culprit is a leaking fuel injector, which can release fuel into the engine compartment, creating a noticeable odor. Additionally, inspect the fuel lines for any cracks or damage, as these can also lead to fuel leaks. Another simple yet often overlooked issue could be a loose or damaged gas cap; ensuring it is tightly sealed can prevent fuel vapors from escaping. More serious concerns include a potential leak in the fuel tank itself, which requires immediate attention from a professional mechanic. Lastly, problems with the evaporative emissions control system can contribute to gas odors, as this system is designed to contain fuel vapors. Addressing these issues promptly not only enhances your vehicle's safety but also helps maintain its efficiency.

How urgent is it to address the gas smell in my 2011 Mazda 6?

Addressing a gas smell in your 2011 Mazda 6 is not just a minor inconvenience; it is a pressing safety concern that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this issue can lead to severe consequences, including the risk of fire due to gasoline leaks, which can ignite from even the smallest spark. Additionally, the health risks associated with inhaling gasoline fumes are significant, as they can cause dizziness, headaches, and nausea, with prolonged exposure potentially leading to more serious health complications. Furthermore, gasoline leaks can have detrimental effects on the environment, contaminating soil and water sources. Given these alarming risks, it is essential to act swiftly by having your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to identify and rectify the source of the gas smell. Taking prompt action not only safeguards your health and safety but also protects the environment from potential harm.

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