i have a 1 year old exora. lately my wife and i began to notice strong fuel smell inside the car right after refueling. of course, afterwards when the car is moving and airconds on, the smell will dissipate quickly.

but we're curious as to what causes it. we didnt notice it at all before this, only in the past few weeks or so.

is this an indication of leakage? if it is, which part could it leak that it produces smell inside the car?

actually, i'm more keen to say it's because the smell comes in when i open the door after refueling. but i just want to make sure.

Did you fill the fuel up to the brim? It happens sometimes if it is too filled up.

Maybe the fuel cap rubber wear out......

Maybe fill the fuel up to the brim......

Are you open or close the door during fuel filling?

Can you change another petrol station and check again?

should close door/window before and after fuelling...
also check the rubber plug at the firewall maybe loosen

This post has been edited by joefbi: Sep 6 2012, 11:22 AM

thanks for reply.

+ i never fill full tank. not even close. mostly i fill RM50, which is about half the tank.
+ i dont open any doors or windows when refueling, as i have a baby onboard.
+ i never fill when the engine is running (if this makes any difference).

- how do i check the rubber seal? what are the tell tale sign of it getting worn out or damaged?
- how would the smell get in the car (interior) if the seal is the problem?

it is not normal if you smell petrol inside your car, especially when driving....

possible cause is the fuel pump has a leak or the conduit is leaking...
potential very dangerous, a quick check with proton guys is highly recommended

I'm not sure on exora layout but I'll just give it a shot.

There's a access door to access your fuel pump in the tank from the inside of the vehicle. On top of the fuel pump normally there's a pressure or vent valve which vents and equalizes the pressure of the fuel tank when operating.

Problem Comes when your access door is not seal tight. Some of the gasses may sip and come into the car during fill up. Result, you smell more petrol smell even a long drive after fill up. Problem 2, fuel pump is not fully secure on the tank resulting constant gasses escaping. This is much apparent whereby you will notice your fuel consumption drops slightly worse than normal.

There are other cases but personally I think it's either the door not seal or you're just being slightly sensitive. Cause you mention it only occurs fueing fill up. Have your local mechanics perform a check.