- Fuel injector problems: When fuel injectors are clogged, damaged or worn out, they can cause leaks, leading to raw fuel entering the combustion chamber. This can result in gasoline smells coming from the spark plugs.
- Cylinder head gasket malfunction: A damaged cylinder head gasket can allow engine coolant to mix with the fuel, resulting in a sweet, coolant-like smell. This can be mistaken for fuel smell.
- Improper air-fuel mixture: An incorrect air-fuel mixture due to a malfunctioning oxygen sensor or problems in the fuel supply system can cause the engine to run rich, resulting in excess fuel in the combustion chamber. This excess fuel can escape and reach the spark plugs, causing them to smell of fuel.
- Choke valve issues: When a choke valve in a carbureted engine is stuck open, it can result in an excessively rich fuel mixture, causing unburned fuel to reach the spark plugs.
- Vacuum leaks: Vacuum leaks can cause a lean fuel mixture, leading to the engine running inefficiently and producing a strong gasoline smell.
- Failed catalytic converter: A faulty catalytic converter may no longer be able to effectively convert unburned hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide into harmless emissions, resulting in a fuel-like odor.
If you notice a persistent smell of fuel near the spark plugs, it's important to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic or automotive technician to identify and address the underlying issue. Ignoring this issue can affect the performance and longevity of your engine.
