1991 Nissan NX Smells Like Gas

Identifying Potential Causes of Gas Smells in Your 1991 Nissan NX and Safety Precautions to Take

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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 1991 Nissan NX 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 1991 Nissan NX 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.

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.

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 for a gas smell in a 1991 Nissan NX, and how should I diagnose the issue?

When dealing with a gas smell in your 1991 Nissan NX, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start with a thorough visual inspection of the vehicle, focusing on the area beneath the car and around the fuel tank for any signs of fuel leaks. Next, examine the fuel lines for cracks or loose connections, as these can often lead to fuel odors. Pay special attention to the fuel injectors; a faulty injector can emit a strong gas smell, so testing their functionality is crucial. Additionally, don’t overlook the gas cap; ensure it is securely fastened and free from damage, as a loose cap can contribute to gas odors inside the vehicle. If these initial checks do not reveal the source of the problem, consider scanning for error codes using a diagnostic tool, which can provide insights into any underlying issues with the fuel system. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently narrow down the potential causes of the gas smell and determine whether a simple fix is possible or if professional assistance is needed.

What could be causing the gas smell in my 1991 Nissan NX?

If you're detecting a gas smell in your 1991 Nissan NX, it's crucial to investigate several common problems that could be at play. Start by inspecting the fuel lines, fuel tank, and fuel injectors for any visible leaks, as even a small crack can lead to significant fuel odors. Additionally, a faulty fuel injector may be leaking fuel into the engine compartment, which can also contribute to the smell. Don't overlook the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can allow fuel vapors to escape, creating a noticeable odor inside the vehicle. Furthermore, issues with the evaporative emissions control system, such as a malfunctioning charcoal canister or purge valve, can lead to gas vapors escaping into the cabin. Lastly, check the exhaust system for any leaks or damage, as these can sometimes result in a gas smell as well. Addressing these issues promptly is essential for your safety and the proper functioning of your vehicle, so consider these potential causes as you troubleshoot the problem.

How urgent is it to address the gas smell in my 1991 Nissan NX?

Addressing a gas smell in your 1991 Nissan NX 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 and cause catastrophic damage to both you and your vehicle. Additionally, the inhalation of gasoline fumes poses serious health risks, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and nausea, which can impair your ability to drive safely. Furthermore, gasoline leaks can have detrimental effects on the environment, potentially contaminating soil and water sources. Therefore, it is essential to investigate and resolve any gas smell promptly, ensuring not only your safety and health but also protecting the environment from harmful pollutants. Taking swift action can prevent more significant issues down the line, making it crucial for any DIY enthusiast to prioritize this matter.

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1991 Nissan NX Smells Like Gas: Causes & Repairs | RepairPal