Mercury Milan Smells Like Gas

Common Causes of Fuel Odors in Your Mercury Milan and Essential Safety Precautions

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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
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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 Mercury Milan 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 Mercury Milan 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.

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 Issues in a Mercury Milan

When faced with gas smell issues in your Mercury Milan, begin your troubleshooting by checking the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is often the simplest and most common culprit. If the cap is secure, inspect the fuel system for any visible leaks or signs of malfunction, as these can lead to gas odors. Next, examine the emissions control system, focusing on components like the fuel vapor canister purge valve, which can also contribute to the problem. If the smell persists, consider using an OBD2 scanner to check for trouble codes related to the O2 sensors, as failures in these sensors can affect the air-to-fuel ratio and result in gas odors. Additionally, be aware of the evaporative emission system; a small leak indicated by the OBD II trouble code P0456 can also be a source of the smell. Remember, even if the check engine light is off, addressing gas smells promptly is crucial for your vehicle's safety and performance. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and resolve the source of the gas smell in your Mercury Milan.

What Could Cause a Gas Smell in a Mercury Milan?

When you detect a gas smell in your Mercury Milan, it’s crucial to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the first things to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily allow fuel vapors to escape, creating a noticeable odor. If the gas cap appears secure, the next area to investigate is the fuel system itself. Look for signs of leaks or damaged fuel lines, as these can lead to a strong gas smell inside and outside the vehicle. Additionally, issues with the emissions control system may also contribute to the odor, as malfunctioning components can fail to properly manage fuel vapors. It’s also worth considering the possibility of fluid leaks, such as oil or transmission fluid, which can produce a burning smell that mimics gasoline. Given the flammable nature of gasoline, it’s essential to address any gas smell immediately to avoid health risks and potential fire hazards. If you’re unable to identify the source of the smell through these checks, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable to ensure your vehicle is safe and functioning properly.

What Should You Do If Your Mercury Milan Smells Like Gas?

If your Mercury Milan emits a gas smell, it’s crucial to act swiftly, as neglecting this issue can lead to serious safety hazards and costly repairs. A gas odor may indicate a leak in the fuel system, which not only poses a fire risk but can also affect your vehicle's performance. Start by checking the gas cap to ensure it is tightly sealed, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit. Next, inspect the fuel system for any visible leaks, particularly around the gas tank and fuel filler tube. Additionally, the emissions control system and the EVAP system play vital roles in managing fuel vapors; any malfunction here could exacerbate the problem. If you cannot pinpoint the source of the smell or if it persists despite your efforts, seeking professional assistance is essential. Addressing these issues promptly not only ensures your safety but also helps maintain the integrity of your vehicle, preventing more significant damage down the line.

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