1997 Mercury Mystique Raw Gas Smell & bad mileage

1997 MERCURY MYSTIQUE
210,000 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
KSPINNER
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
We get a strong raw gas smell only during the warm weather when we are driving. You can not smell it when the car is stopped, parked or when it is cold out. Also it doesn't smell all the time. We cannot see any gas leaks. We are also getting very bad gas mileage. What could be the problem and what would be the cost to fix it?
May 26, 2009 at 10:36 PM
Advertisement
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.
Avatar
RASMATAZ
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 75,992 POSTS
1997 Mercury Mystique Raw Gas Smell & bad mileage

Running rich:

Possible causes include a bad O2 sensor, excessive fuel pressure (bad fuel pressure regulator or plugged return line), leaky fuel injectors, dirty air filter or restricted air inlet, or a defective coolant sensor that prevents the engine management system from going into closed loop mode.
May 26, 2009 at 10:47 PM