Mercury Montego Smells Like Gas

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

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 Montego 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 Montego 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 a Mercury Montego

When troubleshooting a gas smell in your Mercury Montego, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that prioritizes simpler fixes before delving into more complex issues. Start by inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is often the simplest culprit behind fuel odors. Ensure it is securely fastened and in good condition to prevent fuel vapors from escaping. Next, examine the fuel system for any visible leaks or signs of wear, as a compromised fuel line can lead to significant safety hazards. Additionally, check the evaporative emissions control system, which is designed to capture fuel vapors; any leaks here can also contribute to the smell. Be mindful of your refueling habits; overfilling the gas tank can lead to spillage and odors inside the vehicle. If the gas smell persists after these checks, it is crucial to refrain from driving the car and seek professional assistance, as unresolved fuel leaks pose serious risks. By methodically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the gas smell in your Mercury Montego, ensuring both safety and vehicle performance.

What Could Cause a Gas Smell in a Mercury Montego?

When you detect a gas smell in your Mercury Montego, it’s crucial to understand the common problems that could be causing this issue. One of the first things to check is the gas cap; a faulty or loose gas cap can lead to fuel vapors escaping, creating a noticeable odor. Additionally, inspect the evaporative emissions system, as leaks in this system can also contribute to the smell of gasoline. Overfilling the gas tank is another frequent cause, as it can result in fuel spilling into the EVAP system or onto other components, leading to a gas odor. If you suspect a more serious issue, look for signs of an actual fuel leak, which can be dangerous and should be addressed immediately. Lastly, if your vehicle's diagnostic system indicates a trouble code like P0455, it points to a large evaporative emissions leak that requires further investigation. Addressing these issues promptly is essential not only for your vehicle's performance but also for your safety, as gas fumes can pose health risks and fire hazards.

What to Do If Your Mercury Montego Smells Like Gas?

If your Mercury Montego emits a gas smell, it’s crucial to act swiftly, as this could indicate a serious issue that poses safety risks. Ignoring this symptom may lead to dangerous situations, including the risk of fire or engine damage. Start by ensuring you do not drive the vehicle until the source of the smell is identified. A common culprit is a faulty gas cap, which can easily be checked for proper sealing and damage. Next, inspect the fuel system for any visible leaks, such as wet spots under the car or a strong odor around the vehicle, as these can signal a fuel leak that requires immediate attention. Additionally, examine the emissions control system for any malfunctions, as issues here can also contribute to the gas smell. Lastly, be mindful of how you refuel; overfilling the gas tank can lead to fuel overflow and subsequent odors. By addressing these potential issues promptly, you can safeguard your vehicle’s performance and your safety on the road.

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Mercury Montego Smells Like Gas? Causes & Solutions