2018 Toyota C-HR Smells Like Gas

Identifying Potential Causes of Gas Smells in Your 2018 Toyota C-HR 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 2018 Toyota C-HR 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 2018 Toyota C-HR 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 for a gas smell in a 2018 Toyota C-HR, and how should I diagnose the issue?

When faced with a gas smell in your 2018 Toyota C-HR, it's crucial to take a methodical approach to diagnose the issue effectively. Begin by checking for fuel leaks, as these are often the most common culprits. Inspect the fuel lines, tank, and injectors for any visible signs of leakage or damage. Next, ensure that the fuel cap is tightly sealed; a loose or damaged cap can allow gas vapors to escape, contributing to the odor. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, turn your attention to the fuel filter, as a clogged filter can lead to fuel accumulation and unpleasant smells. Additionally, examine the Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP), which plays a vital role in containing fuel vapors; any malfunction in this system could result in noticeable gas odors. Finally, inspect the exhaust system for any leaks that might allow exhaust fumes to enter the cabin. If these steps do not lead to a solution, it may be wise to consult a qualified mechanic for a thorough inspection and diagnosis. By following this structured approach, you can effectively identify and address the source of the gas smell in your vehicle.

What could be causing a gas smell in my 2018 Toyota C-HR?

If you're detecting a gas smell in your 2018 Toyota C-HR, it's crucial to identify the underlying issues to ensure your safety and the vehicle's performance. One common cause could be a fuel leak, which may stem from damaged fuel lines, leaking fuel injectors, or a faulty fuel tank cap. Additionally, problems with the evaporative emissions system, designed to manage fuel vapor release, can also lead to noticeable gas odors. Another potential source is a leak in the exhaust system, which might allow exhaust fumes to infiltrate the cabin. Overfilling the gas tank is another simple yet often overlooked reason for a gas smell, as it can cause gasoline to spill and create strong odors. Lastly, a malfunctioning catalytic converter may emit a sulfur-like smell that could be confused with gasoline. Given the variety of potential causes, it's advisable to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to accurately diagnose and address the issue, ensuring both your safety and the proper functioning of your car.

How urgent is it to address the gas smell in my 2018 Toyota C-HR?

Addressing a gas smell in your 2018 Toyota C-HR is not just a matter of inconvenience; it is a critical safety concern that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to severe consequences, including the risk of fire or explosion due to gasoline leaks. Additionally, the health implications of inhaling gasoline fumes are significant, as they can cause dizziness, headaches, and nausea, which may escalate to more serious health issues with prolonged exposure. Furthermore, a gas smell often indicates a leak in the fuel system, which can compromise your vehicle's performance and lead to expensive repairs if left unaddressed. Therefore, it is essential to take any gas odor seriously and seek professional assistance promptly to ensure your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.

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2018 Toyota C-HR Gas Smell: Causes & Repairs | RepairPal