2002 Subaru Tribeca gas smell when heater is on

Tiny
JLJJLJ
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 SUBARU TRIBECA
  • 4 CYL
  • AWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 82,000 MILES
In the winter time when it is below freezing and we warm the car up and turn the heater on, the vents blow a terrible gas smell. It takes 30-45 minutes before the gas smell goes away. It is better if you turn the button on that circulates that air within the car (as opposed to the outside air), but it still has a very strong gas smell. Strong enough to have to open the windows. This only happens when it is below freezing. Any suggestions as to the cause of the problem? Thanks.
Monday, January 12th, 2009 AT 11:36 AM

1 Reply

Tiny
COOLESTDOG
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
My 2002 Outback has the same problem. I was told that there is a gas preheater that is used when the outside temperature is cold. When it malfunctions the gas line backs up causing a leak until the engine warms up.
I have not been able to get mine fixed because it isn't malfunctioning when I get to the repair shop.
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Friday, February 6th, 2009 AT 10:32 AM

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