* Heater Core Location: The heater core is located within the car's dashboard, and it's part of the vehicle's cooling system. It uses coolant to warm the air that is blown into the cabin.
* Fuel Line Proximity: Fuel lines often run near the heater core area. If there's a leak in a fuel line near the heater core, the fumes can be drawn into the ventilation system by the heater fan when the heat is on, resulting in the smell of gas inside the car.
* Other Potential, Less Likely Sources: While less probable, a leak in the fuel tank or fuel pump could *potentially* contribute to fumes reaching the heater core area under specific circumstances (e.g., a strong prevailing wind), but a leak near the heater core is the far more likely culprit.
It's crucial to understand that a gas smell in your car is extremely dangerous. Don't drive the car. Immediately turn off the heat, ventilate the vehicle, and have it inspected by a qualified mechanic. A gas leak poses a significant fire hazard.
