1991 Suzuki Swift Smells Like Gas

Common Causes of Fuel Odors in Your 1991 Suzuki Swift and Essential Safety Precautions

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 Suzuki Swift 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 efficiency.
  • 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 Suzuki Swift 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.

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.

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.

How to diagnose a gas smell in a 1991 Suzuki Swift?

When diagnosing a gas smell in your 1991 Suzuki Swift, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest potential issues before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit for fuel odors. If the cap is secure, inspect the fuel system for leaks, focusing on fuel injectors and lines, as any signs of fuel pooling or dripping can indicate a problem. Next, examine the evaporative emissions system for cracks or leaks, which can also contribute to gas smells. Don’t overlook the fuel tank; inspect it for any visible damage or leaks, particularly around the filler tube. Finally, consider other potential sources of odor, such as fluids leaking onto hot engine parts, which can sometimes mimic the smell of gasoline. By following this diagnostic approach, you can effectively identify and address the source of the gas smell in your vehicle.

What could be causing my 1991 Suzuki Swift to smell like gas?

If your 1991 Suzuki Swift is emitting a gas smell, it’s essential to identify the underlying cause to ensure safety and proper vehicle function. One of the most common culprits is a faulty gas cap; a damaged or improperly sealed cap can lead to fuel vapors escaping, creating a noticeable odor. Additionally, inspect the fuel system for leaks, as issues with fuel injectors, fuel lines, or the fuel tank itself can also result in a gas smell. Another area to consider is the emissions control system, which can malfunction and contribute to the odor. Lastly, be aware that a rich fuel mixture during cold starts or a slipping serpentine belt may produce smells that could be mistaken for gasoline. To address these issues, start by checking the gas cap and inspecting the fuel system for any visible leaks. If you’re comfortable, you can also examine the emissions components. However, if the smell persists or you’re uncertain about the diagnosis, seeking professional assistance is recommended to avoid potential hazards.

How urgent is it to address a gas smell in a 1991 Suzuki Swift?

When you detect a gas smell in your 1991 Suzuki Swift, it is essential to act swiftly due to the serious safety risks involved. A gas odor can signal various issues, such as a faulty gas cap, leaks in the fuel system, or problems with the evaporative emissions system. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to dangerous fuel leaks, which not only pose a fire hazard but can also compromise the vehicle's performance. If you notice fuel pooling under your car or experience a burning smell, these are urgent signs that should not be overlooked. It is highly advisable to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic who can accurately diagnose the source of the gas smell and implement necessary repairs. Taking prompt action not only ensures your safety but also helps prevent more significant damage and costly repairs down the line.

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1991 Suzuki Swift Smells Like Gas? Causes & Solutions