The auto expert named the frequent causes of fuel leaks

A sharp characteristic smell of gasoline in the car interior or a puddle of all the colors of the rainbow under the car are signs of a fuel leak. This situation is extremely serious and dangerous. It requires an immediate response from the car owner. Alexander Homan, head of the Paveletskaya FIT SERVICE, told Izvestia on March 14 about the malfunctions that lead to this.

According to him, the problem with fuel leaks can occur due to the fuel filter. Filters that are located near the gas tank are especially susceptible to this "disease". This arrangement is not provided in all vehicles. Due to the aggressive effects of the external environment (dirt, reagents, abrasives), metal corrosion begins, small through holes appear, from which fuel oozes. Over time, the tubes that lead to the filter can also rot. All these elements are located in the area of the bottom of the car, the access of road dirt to them is quite simple.

"Due to a clogged fuel filter, which needs to be changed in a timely manner, leaks may also occur. The fuel pump will operate at increased power, and the pressure in the system will increase, so there will be a risk of leaks. The second option is a clogged or broken fuel pump. The next common problem is also related to metal corrosion. Many cars older than 10 years old have iron gas tanks installed," he said.

The expert explained that over time, due to external influences (road dirt, high humidity, temperature fluctuations), fasteners that hold the gas tank may rot. Therefore, the tank itself sinks, and sometimes just falls down, and immediately there is a significant leak. The walls of the tank itself can also rot, then at first the fuel can ooze out, and over time just run. The initial stage can be recognized only with the appearance of an odor or with a full-fledged diagnosis at a service station. Modern cars most often come with plastic tanks, so problems with leaks are less common in this case.

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"Sometimes the gas tank is simply punctured on the road. This happens when a car hits a large pothole or hits a high curb. The next common problem is a leak—proof gas pump. Most often, the issue is solved by replacing various gaskets associated with the fuel ramp. Defects in fuel hoses are less common — they can crack, the pressure will drop, and leaks will occur," added Homan.

Sometimes malfunctions can be related to the fuel injectors when the O-rings wear out.

If a fuel leak is detected, it is important not to start driving. You need to turn off the car if the problem appears on the way, and go to a car service, the best option is to use a tow truck.

"A fuel leak is a dangerous malfunction in which driving is not recommended. Any spark or fuel entering a hot element is a high risk of ignition," he explained.

Earlier, on March 14, experts from the SberAuto car purchase, maintenance and sale service told Izvestia that with basic tools and skills, self-tire installation can lead to unpleasant consequences. They stressed that it is worthwhile to change only the wheel assemblies on your own — it is difficult to properly install the disc without experience and equipment.