Gas smell

Probable causes of an engine running rich are as follows:

1. Excessive fuel pressure can be cause by restricted fuel return line
2. Defective Oxygen Sensors.
3. Leaking injectors and fuel pressure regulator.
4. Coolant temperature sensor out of calibration.
5. Restricted air intake system.

Check fuel pressure with mechanical gauge. It should hold pressure after pump is off, if not then injector, fuel pressure regulator.

Forget the battery and starter, you have a fuel leak somewhere, or clogged fuel return line.

Checking fuel pressure with a mechanical gauge would be a good starting point, and pressure should hold at 45psi for a minute or so after pump is off.

If normal pressure, raise car out on stands, pressurize fuel system by turning key to on then off and inspect entire fuel delivery system from tank to fuel rail.
Fuel leaks can sometimes not be visable on a hot engine since the gas evaporates very quickly, but this is a dangerous situation, a gas fire is a distinct possibility.

If it was on the tank, it could have been where the pump supply and return line go in, or part of the EVAP system.

In any case, I am glad it's repaired and you are safe.

Chances are there is a leak that you don't see. Go to our do it yourself section on the home page and check fuel pressure. While doing it, I need you to pay attention to fuel pressure drop off when you shut the key. It should maintain for some time. If it drops quickly, there is a leak. Do that and let me know what you find.

Joe

Open the hood and check to see if you can see gas if you do take to a local mechanic sohe can fix it. Have him also scan for codes as itmay be body module problem for your dash lights.

Check engine compartment for strong gas smell and any wetness. Around injectors and fuel rail. Is the smell stronger when car sits over night?

Maybe a problem with Evaporation system need to have that checked for proper operation. Still look around under hood.

There is probably a gas leak in the engine compartment. The fresh air is pulled in from just in front of the bottom of the windshield, so any odors from the engine bay will make it into the car.
A small leak in a fuel injection system will drop the pressure enough to cause hard starting.
You also have a fire hazard on your hands so take it to a repair facility ASAP.

If you smell it when you are driving, the smell is most likely coming from under the hood. Check where the fuel injectors are attached to the engine to make sure they are not leaking. Also, check along the fuel rail and inlet for leaks. If nothing is found, you will need to do a fuel pressure test and see how fast the fuel pressure drops after the key is off to determine if there is a leak in that part of the system or in the evap system.

Let me know what you find, or if you have other questions.

Joe