2014 Toyota Camry Smells Like Gas

Identifying Potential Causes of Gas Smells in Your 2014 Toyota Camry and Essential Safety Measures

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2014 Toyota Camry 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 2014 Toyota Camry 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.

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 2014 Toyota Camry?

When dealing with a gas smell in your 2014 Toyota Camry, it's crucial to take a methodical approach to diagnose the issue effectively. Begin by inspecting the area under your vehicle for any visible fuel leaks, as this is often the most straightforward problem to identify. Next, ensure that the fuel cap is securely fastened and in good condition, since a loose or damaged cap can allow gas vapors to escape. If these initial checks do not reveal the source of the smell, consider using an OBD-II scanner to check for any error codes that might indicate a malfunction in the fuel or emissions systems. Following this, examine the evaporative emissions system, paying close attention to components like the charcoal canister and purge valve, which can develop leaks over time. Additionally, inspect the exhaust system for any cracks or damaged gaskets that could be contributing to the odor. Lastly, monitor your engine's performance; if it is running too rich, this could lead to unburned fuel odors that warrant further investigation. By systematically addressing these potential causes, you can effectively pinpoint and resolve the source of the gas smell in your Camry.

What are the common causes of a gas smell in a 2014 Toyota Camry?

When you detect a gas smell in your 2014 Toyota Camry, it’s crucial to investigate the source promptly to ensure safety and prevent further complications. One of the most common culprits is a fuel leak, which can occur from damaged fuel lines or faulty fuel injectors, leading to a noticeable odor both inside and outside the vehicle. Additionally, issues with the evaporative emissions system, designed to manage fuel vapor release from the tank, can also contribute to this problem. A simple yet often overlooked cause is a faulty fuel cap; if it’s loose or damaged, it can allow fuel vapors to escape. Furthermore, an exhaust system leak, particularly from components like the exhaust manifold or catalytic converter, may produce a gas-like smell. Lastly, engine performance issues, such as running too rich or misfiring, can also result in a gas odor. If you experience a persistent gas smell, it’s advisable to conduct a thorough inspection or consult a qualified mechanic to diagnose and address the issue effectively.

How urgent is it to address the gas smell in my 2014 Toyota Camry?

Addressing a gas smell in your 2014 Toyota Camry 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. Ignoring this warning sign can result in more severe damage to your car, leading to costly repairs that could have been avoided with prompt action. Therefore, if you detect a gas smell, it is crucial to investigate the source and address it without delay to protect both your safety and the integrity of your vehicle.

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2014 Toyota Camry Gas Smell: Causes & Repairs | RepairPal