When I start my car, I smell a strong fuel odor?

JAS0822

MEMBER
2007 KIA SPECTRA
2.0L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
113,000 MILES

I was told that it could be normal with it being -20°F here but everyone said it should go away and it doesn’t. I can smell it coming from my heater when that’s running. I didn’t think it was leaking until I went outside and saw a little puddle and given that it’s been snowing that’s what I thought it was but when I went to smell it, it smelt like fuel. I don’t even know how to even go about diagnosing it, let alone fixing it. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

4 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,262 POSTS

Hi,

Regardless of the outside temperature, you shouldn't smell raw fuel. Also, this should be resolved before driving it.

As far as the puddle, where did you see it? Was it at the front or rear of the vehicle?

I attached a pic below and highlighted the fuel rail. Protect your eyes from possible fuel spraying. Have a helper cycle the key from off to on a few times while you watch to see if there is evidence of a leak.

By cycling the key, you will build up pressure in the system. So, make sure to protect your eyes.

Let me know what you find.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.

Image (Click to make bigger)

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Saturday, January 13th, 2024 AT 9:16 PM

JAS0822

MEMBER
64 POSTS

It’s at the front of the car. I smell it more on the driver's side of the vehicle than I do on the passenger side.

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Saturday, January 13th, 2024 AT 9:27 PM

JAS0822

MEMBER
64 POSTS

I got it figured out; it was the line that delivered fuel to the fuel rail. The hose clamp that connected the hard line and the rubber line failed. Replaced it and we’re good to go. Just wish it wasn’t -10 when I was doing it.

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Sunday, January 14th, 2024 AT 11:41 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,262 POSTS

Hi,

Thanks for the update. I'm glad you got it taken care of. Anytime there is a fuel leak, it is dangerous.

I'm near Pittsburgh and it's +10 right now. LOL You can keep the -10. I can't wait for spring.

Take care of yourself and feel free to come back anytime in the future.

Joe

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Sunday, January 14th, 2024 AT 7:53 PM