Toyota Camry Smells Like Gas

Common Causes of Fuel Odors in Your Toyota Camry and Essential Safety Precautions

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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
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40% chance it's the
Emissions Control System
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45% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 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 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.

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.

Troubleshooting Gas Smell in a Toyota Camry

When faced with a gas smell in your Toyota Camry, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach to ensure safety and effectively identify the source of the odor. Start by determining whether the smell is indeed a result of a fuel leak. Inspect the fuel system components, including the fuel lines and gas cap, as these are common culprits. If the smell is more pronounced at the rear of the vehicle, pay particular attention to the fuel filter and its gasket, as these can develop leaks over time. Additionally, avoid overfilling the gas tank, as this can lead to fuel vapors escaping. If the odor seems to emanate from the front, the EVAP system may require inspection, as it plays a crucial role in managing fuel vapors. In some cases, bypassing the charcoal canister can provide a temporary solution, but this should be approached with caution and ideally followed by a more permanent fix. By systematically checking these areas, you can effectively troubleshoot the gas smell and ensure a safe driving experience.

What Could Cause a Gas Smell in a Toyota Camry?

When you detect a gas smell in your Toyota Camry, it’s crucial to investigate the underlying causes to ensure your safety and the vehicle's performance. One of the most common issues is a leak in the fuel system, which can occur due to damaged fuel lines or connections. This situation poses a significant fire hazard, so it’s essential to inspect for any visible signs of leakage. Additionally, decaying seals and O-rings can lead to gas vapors escaping, particularly in older models where these components may have deteriorated over time. Another factor to consider is excessive fuel pressure, which can create a rich air/fuel mixture, resulting in a gas smell and potentially triggering the check engine light. If you suspect this, checking the fuel pressure regulator for proper function is advisable. Lastly, issues with the charcoal canister, which is responsible for capturing fuel vapors, can also contribute to the smell. A simple fix might involve rerouting the fuel vapor hose if you’re comfortable with DIY repairs. Addressing these problems promptly not only enhances your vehicle's safety but also ensures it operates efficiently.

What to Do When Your Toyota Camry Smells Like Gas?

When your Toyota Camry emits a gas smell, it is essential to act swiftly, as neglecting this issue can lead to serious safety hazards, including the risk of fire or engine damage. The first step is to check for any fuel leaks, as these can pose immediate dangers. A thorough inspection of the gas cap is also crucial; a loose or damaged cap can allow harmful vapors to enter the cabin, compromising your safety. Additionally, examining the exhaust system for leaks is vital, as these can contribute to the gas odor and indicate deeper mechanical issues. Don't overlook the fuel filter, which may require inspection for any faulty gaskets or loose components. Lastly, consider the condition of the charcoal canister, as bypassing it may provide a temporary solution to the gas smell. Addressing these concerns promptly not only enhances your driving experience but also ensures your safety on the road.

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