2021 Toyota C-HR Smells Like Gas

Identifying Potential Causes of Gas Smells in Your 2021 Toyota C-HR and Safety Precautions to Take

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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
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45% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2021 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 2021 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 and diagnostic steps for a gas smell in a 2021 Toyota C-HR?

When dealing with a gas smell in your 2021 Toyota C-HR, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the underlying issue effectively. Start by checking for visible leaks in the fuel system, focusing on components like fuel lines, injectors, and the fuel tank. A simple yet often overlooked step is to inspect the fuel cap; ensure it is securely tightened and free from damage, as a faulty cap can allow gas vapors to escape. Next, utilize an OBD-II scanner to check for any error codes that may indicate problems with the fuel system or emissions components. Pay particular attention to the evaporative emissions system, inspecting the charcoal canister and purge valve for any signs of malfunction. Additionally, examine the exhaust system for leaks or damage that could be allowing gas fumes to infiltrate the cabin. Finally, monitor your engine's performance for any unusual sounds or changes in fuel efficiency, as these can provide further clues to the source of the gas smell. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently diagnose and address the gas odor issue in your vehicle.

What could be causing a gas smell in my 2021 Toyota C-HR?

If you're experiencing a gas smell in your 2021 Toyota C-HR, it's important to identify the underlying issues that could be causing this concern. A common reason for the odor is a fuel leak, which may stem from damaged fuel lines, malfunctioning fuel injectors, or problems with the fuel tank. Additionally, a loose or improperly sealed gas cap can lead to fuel vapors escaping, resulting in a noticeable gas smell. Another potential source is the evaporative emissions system, which is responsible for capturing and recirculating fuel vapors; any faults in this system can contribute to the odor. Moreover, leaks in the exhaust system, such as cracks in the exhaust manifold or damage to the catalytic converter, can also produce a gas-like smell inside the vehicle. Lastly, overfilling the gas tank can cause fuel to spill, exacerbating the issue. It’s crucial to address these problems promptly to ensure your safety and maintain your vehicle's performance, so seeking a professional mechanic's assistance for a thorough inspection is highly recommended.

How urgent is it to address the gas smell in my 2021 Toyota C-HR?

Addressing a gas smell in your 2021 Toyota C-HR is not just a minor inconvenience; it is a pressing safety concern that requires immediate attention. The presence of gasoline fumes can indicate a fuel leak, which poses a significant fire hazard and increases the risk of explosion, especially in a confined space like a vehicle. Moreover, inhaling gasoline vapors can lead to serious health issues, including dizziness, headaches, and respiratory problems, making it essential to act quickly. Ignoring this warning sign can also result in further damage to your car's engine and fuel system, leading to costly repairs down the line. Therefore, if you detect a gas smell, it is crucial to investigate the source and seek professional assistance without delay to ensure your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.

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2021 Toyota C-HR Smells Like Gas: Causes & Repairs