2009 Volvo S60 Smells Like Gas

Identifying Potential Causes of Gas Smells in Your 2009 Volvo S60 and Safety Precautions to Take

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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 2009 Volvo S60 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 2009 Volvo S60 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 2009 Volvo S60?

When dealing with a gas smell in your 2009 Volvo S60, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start with a thorough visual inspection of the engine and fuel system, looking for any signs of fuel leaks around the fuel lines, injectors, or the engine itself. If you notice any wet spots or strong odors, this could indicate a fuel leak that needs immediate attention. Next, check if the check engine light is illuminated, as this can provide valuable insights into issues like incomplete combustion or evaporative emissions, which are common culprits for gas smells. Utilizing a diagnostic scanner can further aid in pinpointing specific error codes, such as P04440, which relates to evaporative emissions problems. If these initial steps do not resolve the issue, or if you are uncomfortable performing these checks, consulting a professional mechanic is advisable. They can provide a more comprehensive diagnosis and ensure that any underlying problems are addressed safely and effectively. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently troubleshoot the gas smell in your vehicle and take the necessary steps to resolve it.

What could be causing a gas smell in my 2009 Volvo S60?

When you notice a gas smell in your 2009 Volvo S60, it’s crucial to investigate the underlying causes to ensure both your safety and the vehicle's performance. A fuel leak is often the primary suspect, which can stem from damaged fuel lines, malfunctioning fuel injectors, or even a compromised fuel tank. If the odor is accompanied by sluggish acceleration or a check engine light, it may indicate incomplete combustion, potentially linked to exhaust system issues. Additionally, if the smell intensifies while the engine is running, the fuel injectors could be at fault, necessitating cleaning or replacement. Other factors, such as worn-out or dirty components, can also contribute to the gas smell. For those who prefer a DIY approach, start by visually inspecting the fuel system for leaks and checking the condition of the fuel injectors. However, if the source remains elusive or the problem persists, seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or Volvo specialist is advisable to ensure a thorough diagnosis and safe resolution.

How urgent is it to address the gas smell in my 2009 Volvo S60?

Addressing a gas smell in your 2009 Volvo S60 is not just a matter of comfort; it is a critical safety concern that requires immediate attention. Gasoline odors can signal serious issues such as fuel leaks or malfunctions within the fuel system, which pose significant fire hazards and can compromise your vehicle's performance. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to escalating problems, including decreased engine efficiency and potential damage to vital components like the catalytic converter or fuel pressure sensor. For DIY enthusiasts, it is essential to conduct a thorough inspection of the fuel lines, connections, and any visible components for signs of wear or leaks. If you detect any abnormalities, it is advisable to address them promptly, as this can prevent further complications and ensure your vehicle operates safely. If the source of the smell remains elusive or if you are uncomfortable performing repairs, seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or a Volvo service center is highly recommended to ensure a comprehensive evaluation and necessary repairs.

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2009 Volvo S60 Smells Like Gas: Causes & Repairs | RepairPal