Help: Sudden strong smell of gasoline

What should I be checking/looking at/cleaning/replacing/crying over?

I searched the forums but didn't get any straight answer, just some troubling hints that a strong gas smell was a precursor to the engine dying...which I would really like to prevent.

Any help would be appreciated. I have 143k on the clock, I just did an oil/filter/PCV change at 140k and put Castrol 10W-30 High Mileage Semi-synth in. I replaced the grommet the PCV valve sits in because the old one was rotted/torn right at the neck (got 2 for $12 from some online place).

Any advice appreciated. I want to nip this in the bud if it's major.

-Tom

I would start following the fuel path looking for leaks...fuel cap good seal, tank, fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel rails, fpr, injecters, the injecter o rings...

When that gas smell happened on mine it was the fuel presure regulator.

I had a split in the fuel line leading to the fuel rails, what a pain, course I changed the knock sensor and put new manifold gasket while I was there.

Check back of the engine with gas leaking on the EGR. I flatbeded to the shop for a new hose and clamp.
Roy

Thanks all. I am doing my best to check what has been suggested. Although I am no expert wrencher.

@newthings - I assume the EGR is at the back top of the engine and not underneath?

Also, the smell is less today than it has been the last couple days, and there are no puddles of gas in my garage (or anything else). Consumption appears normal (i.e. craptacular).

If I find anything I will enlighten the helpful crowd :)

Quote:

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Originally Posted by twalker920

I assume the EGR is at the back top of the engine and not underneath?

Also, the smell is less today than it has been the last couple days, and there are no puddles of gas in my garage (or anything else). Consumption appears normal (i.e. craptacular).

If I find anything I will enlighten the helpful crowd :)

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http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/00000_1.JPG

Sometimes if you fill the tank too completely, the gas smell will linger...:yesgray:

Never go past the first time the pump shuts off.

Twalker920,
Did you find the solution for this issue?

I'm having the exact same symptoms. I'll also add that the gas tank is highly pressurized when I remove the gas cap.
Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks!
Jim

since i bought my vx i've always had a slight smell of gasoline when you walk around the outside of the car - i recently had some idle issues and changed the idle control valve and ever since its been running really good and no more smell of gasoline - thinking about changing the fuel pressure regulator and throttle position sensor just to see if it improves any more