Does the Inside of Your Subaru Smell Like Gas? Here are 4 Possible Reasons

May 20, 2019

Your car works best when everything stays where it should. If you smell gas in the cabin of your car, that means that something is probably not staying where it should. There is a chance that the smell of gas is nothing to be worried about. If you smell it at a stoplight when you're behind another vehicle, and it goes away once the other car moves, it's likely not from your Subaru. However, if the smell of gas is persistent, you'll need to get your Subaru looked at. Here are four common reasons why you may smell gas in the cabin of your Subaru.

4. A Missing Gas Cap

When you last filled your Subaru with gas, did you make sure to put the gas cap back on? The cap seals in vapors--so if it's not in place, these vapors can escape and get into your cabin. This can be particularly noticeable if you're sitting at a stoplight or in traffic. Putting the gas cap back on (or buying a new one if it's lost) is an easy way to fix this problem.

3. Cracked or Worn Gas Cap

Even if the gas cap is firmly in place, it may not be doing its job properly if it's damaged. Inspect the inside of the cap. Is the seal worn and crumbling? Is the cap itself cracked? If so, gas fumes may escape from the tank. If this is the problem, you're in luck. Gas caps are inexpensive and easy to replace.

2. Gas Leak

Gas can leak from a variety of places in your Subaru, from the gas tank to somewhere within the engine. If it's an engine leak, there could be many causes, including a leaky fuel injector or worn engine seals. Since gasoline is volatile and can easily combust, a gas leak is a dangerous thing. If you suspect your vehicle is leaking gas, we strongly advise you not to drive it. Instead, have it towed to an authorized Subaru service center like Capitol Subaru.