2013 Volvo S80 Smells Like Gas

Identifying Potential Causes of Gas Smells in Your 2013 Volvo S80 and Essential Safety Measures

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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
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions Control System
0%
45% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2013 Volvo S80 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 2013 Volvo S80 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 steps should I take to diagnose the gas smell in my 2013 Volvo S80?

To diagnose the gas smell in your 2013 Volvo S80, start with a thorough visual inspection of the vehicle's fuel system components. Look for any visible signs of leaks or damage around the fuel tank, fuel lines, and fuel injectors, as these are common culprits for gas odors. Next, check the fuel pressure regulator to ensure it is functioning correctly, as any malfunction here can contribute to the smell. Don’t overlook the gas cap seal; a faulty seal can allow fumes to escape, so make sure it is intact and sealing properly. Utilizing a diagnostic scanner can provide deeper insights; connect it to the vehicle and select the appropriate control module to check for any error codes that may indicate specific issues. Pay particular attention to any codes related to evaporative emissions, as these can signal fuel line leaks or other problems. If you suspect more complex issues or cannot identify the source of the smell, consulting a professional mechanic is advisable to ensure a thorough diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can effectively address the gas smell and maintain the safety and performance of your vehicle.

What could be causing a gas smell in my 2013 Volvo S80?

If you're detecting a gas smell in your 2013 Volvo S80, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be the source of the odor. A fuel leak is often the primary culprit, which may stem from a damaged fuel line, a faulty fuel injector, or even a compromised fuel tank. Additionally, incomplete combustion can contribute to the smell, particularly if you notice sluggish acceleration or a check engine light, indicating that the engine isn't performing optimally. Another potential issue is overfilling the gas tank, which can cause fuel to spill into the EVAP system or onto surrounding components, leading to noticeable gas odors inside the cabin. Lastly, a malfunctioning fuel injector may allow gasoline to leak into the engine, producing a gas smell while the engine is running. By systematically inspecting these areas, you can identify the root cause of the gas smell and take appropriate action to resolve the issue, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and functional.

How urgent is it to address the gas smell in my 2013 Volvo S80?

Addressing a gas smell in your 2013 Volvo S80 is not just a matter of comfort; it is a critical safety issue that requires immediate attention. A gas odor can signal a fuel system leak, which poses serious risks, including the potential for fire or explosion. If you detect this smell inside your vehicle, it is essential to act quickly. Start by inspecting the fuel lines and connections for any visible signs of wear or damage, as these are common culprits. Additionally, check the fuel tank and surrounding areas for leaks. If you are unable to identify the source or if the smell persists, it is advisable to consult a professional mechanic. Ignoring this warning could lead to more severe complications, including costly repairs and safety hazards, making it imperative to prioritize this issue for the well-being of both you and your passengers.

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2013 Volvo S80 Smells Like Gas: Causes & Solutions