So about a month ago I noticed a strong gas smell in my car whenever it was cold. I located a leaky gas line in the trunk and fixed it. I was in Tahoe this week and I noticed that same smell again but it was much more subtle. I popped the hood and was hit by a wave of gas fumes. I've checked every inch of piping and all of my connections and can't find a problem. Any ideas? Its worrying me

 

there is a extended recall for some 2002-2003 wrx for a fuel smell in the engine bay. Take it to your closest dealer and inquire about it.

 

NUMBER WVK-21

DATE: DECEMBER 2009

APPLICABILITY:
2002 & 2003 SUBARU IMPREZA WRX

SUBJECT:
ENGINE FUEL LINE

INTRODUCTION

Subaru has initiated a voluntary regional recall to replace a specific engine fuel line and hose on certain 2002 and 2003 model year Impreza WRX models currently registered in the 16 "cold weather" states listed below.

In extremely cold outside temperatures, the fuel delivery line/hose located under the engine intake manifold may temporarily seep some fuel during initial cold engine start up. If this condition occurs, vehicle occupants may notice the smell of fuel. To correct this condition, affected vehicles will require replacement of the engine fuel delivery line and hose.

Additionally, Subaru will provide an extended 12 year/unlimited mileage warranty for this condition t [...]

 

same here. in tahoe, started her up to let her warm up. came back 5-10 minutes later to find the cab REEEKING of what my lady thought was oil, but very obvious it was fuel. like OP said, only in COLD COLD weather

 

Mine is a Suby 2002 WRX and I begin smelling gas inside my car.

 

My car isn't on the recall list I can't find a leak anywhere iv gone through the entire fuel system.

 

the leak normally comes from underneath the intake manifold right beneath the Throttle body its self or underneath the actually manifold. call a different Dealer i was told the same when i call a while back then i took it in and had them do it on the spot took about 2 hours.

 

This is a common problem in 02/03 WRX's....i was told the recall only applied to cold weather areas...which is BS since technically they don't count california as one...if you give the dealer enough of a hassle i'm sure they will honor it eventually....

 

I'm taking mine to the dealer this weekend because I've been having the same problem. But they told me I'd be responsible for anything they break in the process. Fantastic right??!!!

 

i had this exact issue, told them of the recall, demanded they do it, after complaining enough they did all the other recalls as well, but refused to perform the wvk-21 based on having a fmic and a few other modifications..... you can purchase the repair kit as well, its the hard lines, the soft lines, and new hose clamps for the fuel rails

Lloyd

 

So after reading everyone's comments I should give the dealer a call? I've also read it could be as simple as tightening two bolts.