2012 Volkswagen Tiguan Smells Like Gas

Addressing Gas Smells in Your 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan 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 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan 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 of a gas smell in a 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan, and how should I diagnose them?

When faced with a gas smell in your 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to pinpoint the issue. Start with a thorough visual inspection of the fuel system, looking for any signs of leaks around the fuel tank, lines, and injectors, as these are common culprits. If you notice wet spots or a strong gasoline odor, this could indicate a fuel leak. Next, assess the condition of the fuel injectors; a faulty injector may lead to poor fuel economy and rough engine performance, which can also contribute to the gas smell. Additionally, examine the evaporative emissions system, as issues with components like the charcoal canister or purge valve can allow fuel vapors to escape. Don’t overlook the exhaust system; a leak in the exhaust manifold or a damaged catalytic converter can also result in a gas odor inside the cabin. Finally, check the ventilation system, including the cabin air filter, to ensure that gasoline fumes are not entering the vehicle. If the check engine light is on, using an OBD-II scanner can provide valuable error codes that guide your diagnosis. By following these steps, you can effectively narrow down the source of the gas smell and take appropriate action to resolve the issue.

What could be causing a gas smell in my 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan?

If you're detecting a gas smell in your 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan, it's crucial to investigate the source to ensure both your safety and the vehicle's performance. One of the most common culprits is a fuel leak, which can occur from various points in the fuel system, including fuel injectors, lines, or even the fuel tank itself. Additionally, a faulty or improperly sealed fuel cap can allow vapors to escape, leading to noticeable odors inside the cabin. Another area to consider is the evaporative emissions system, which is designed to prevent fuel vapors from escaping into the atmosphere; any malfunction here can result in a gas smell. Furthermore, an exhaust system leak may inadvertently allow fumes to enter the vehicle, while engine issues, such as sensor malfunctions or combustion problems, can also contribute to the odor. For those inclined to DIY, start by visually inspecting the fuel cap and lines for any obvious signs of wear or damage, but remember that some issues may require professional diagnostic tools and expertise to resolve effectively.

How urgent is it to address the gas smell in my 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan?

When you detect a gas smell in your 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan, it is imperative to act swiftly due to the serious safety risks involved. Gasoline leaks can lead to dangerous fire hazards, and even a small leak can escalate into a significant threat if not addressed immediately. Additionally, inhaling gasoline fumes poses health risks, including dizziness and respiratory issues, which can affect your well-being. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to inspect the fuel system for visible leaks, paying close attention to fuel lines, connections, and the fuel tank itself. If you notice any wet spots or strong odors, it’s crucial to refrain from starting the engine and to ventilate the area. While some minor repairs may be manageable at home, do not hesitate to consult a professional mechanic if the issue seems beyond your expertise. Prompt action not only safeguards your health and safety but also helps prevent further damage to your vehicle, which could lead to costly repairs down the line.

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