Fuel Smell Alert! on Cold Days-Subaru Models
If you’ve noticed that since the weather has become colder you are getting an obvious raw fuel smell coming through the vents of your Subaru you’re not alone. SUBARU RECALL NO. WVK-21 for 2002-2003 Subaru WRX Models resolves a fuel leak from the fuel line under the intake manifold during cold weather condition. The fuel leaks out onto the top of the engine block from the fuel line creating a possible fire hazard. If you have one of these models and have experienced this symptom, call you local dealer with your V.I.N. so they can check if the recall applies. If so, they can repair it free of charge. You should mention that you are experiencing the fuel smell symptom during your inquiry.
Other Subaru models are affected too. We’ve seen similar issues of fuel leaking from fuel lines under the intake manifold during cold conditions on numerous other Subaru models including the Outback and Forester. There is no current recall or service bulletin at this time that I’m aware of. If you experience this symptom. Bring it to your local Subaru specialist to diagnose and repair the issue right away.
Cheers,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru Expert
If you ever experience this symptom have it checked as soon as possible. We’ve seen some that just seep a drop or two but we’ve also seen a couple that were actually pooling fuel on top of the engine.
I just had my 2002 WRX done at Skagit Ford Subaru. I’ve noticed a fuel smell during cold snaps since I got it in 2004 but it quickly went away. This winter it was different, the gasoline odor was overpowering and lasted quite a while and wasn’t just in the morning. I had to have the windows cracked to flush out the cabin. Not good.
Likely won’t know if the problem has been fixed till next winter at this point.
Hi Bruce,
If they replaced the fuel line (hard pipe) under the intake and the fuel hoses connecting to it, you likely won’t experience the problem again. Unfortunately you won’t know until the next cold snap unless you stay overnight at the pass.
Take care,
Mike
I’m awaiting a call back from my Subaru dealer regarding this raw fuel smell. I’ve experienced it for 2 years now and have had it. It’s getting worse every day. I love my car and want to keep it, but also want to be safe too. Thanks for the advice!
I hope they find it for you. We’ve found that on many of the models, over the years that the fuel lines seep when very cold and can necessitate either tightening of clamps or replacing the fuel hose depending on the circumstances.
Good Luck,
Mike Corbin
Independent Subaru Expert
Shoreline, Wa
Hi Mike, I just bought a 2013 Forester. 71 kms on it and had to tow it for service. VERY strong fuel smell OUTSIDE the vehicle when parked and also on start up. Have you heard of this or have you any idea what might be the cause? The local Subaru Dealership here has no idea, they can’t find any problem. I suggested they park it in their garage overnight, then they can’t miss the smell. Thanks so much
Hi Joanne,
I have not heard of this issue with a Forester that new. I would check under the hood with the car not running to see if there is any fuel smell. Also, as the season becomes colder, the car does use more fuel during warmup and in many cases it can make the exhaust smell much stronger of fuel.
I think you need to determine if it’s from under the hood or the exhaust. If it’s under the hood than it is a serious concern that should be dealt with right away.
If it is out the exhaust, then monitor it to see if the smell goes away once the car is warm. If the latter is the case it may be perfectly normal.
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
http://www.smart-service.com
I too have experienced a raw gas smell in my 2002 Subaru Outback, for at least three years now. This year is the worst. My dealer is checking for any recalls, but did not believe there were any. Why not? I can’t afford a large mechanic bill, it sounds as if it is obviously a known problem. Let’s go, Subaru! I love my car otherwise!
I too have the gas smell in car this winter. I have had this car for 10 yrs and never had this problem before. It is really cold today. Wondering if it is dangerous to drive, got to go to work and no other car. There seems to be no answer to whether it is dangerous.
Hi Liz,
If it is fuel leaking then it would be dangerous to drive until the problem is repaired.
Usually you’ll find the leak at a fuel line clamp.
Take care,
Mike Corbin
Smart Service
206-417-0880
I have a 2001 Subaru Outback that stinks to high heaven of raw gasoline every time I start it up in very cold weather. Thank you for all the information I was able to get on this site!
Just another issue in a long line of Subaru issues I’ve been having in the last year. Strong fuel smell on startup in cold weather in my 03 Legacy. I love how this car drives in the winter but I’m not sure I can afford it anymore and I’m not impressed with the new models. I guess it’s back to the shop for me.