Gas Pouring Out Bottom of Car?

If you notice gasoline pouring out of the bottom of your car, it is important to take action immediately. Gasoline is a highly flammable substance, and if it ignites, it can cause severe damage to your vehicle or even injure you.

There are a few possible causes of this issue. Most likely, though, is a loose or damaged fuel line. A busted gas line gasket or a damaged fuel tank could also be the cause. Driving with a fuel leakage can quickly turn into a dangerous situation, so it’s essential to address the issue as soon as possible.

This article will discuss the possible causes and symptoms of gas pouring out bottom of car and what to do if you notice this issue.

Gas Leak Symptoms

If you assume you’ve got a gas leak but you’re not quite sure, there are some tell-tale signs you can look for.

1. Puddles of Gas Under the Car

If you notice a large puddle of fluid under your car, it’s an indication of a leak. Usually, it’s hard to determine if it’s gas just by the color of the diesel or gasoline. Easiest way to find out is by the smell.

Regular buildups of gas under the car strongly indicate a fuel leak problem that should be addressed as soon as possible.

2. Fuel Gauge Drops Quickly

Noticing your fuel gauge is dropping more quickly than usual is also a clear indication of a gas leak.

If the needle on your fuel gauge is dropping faster than expected, even when you haven’t been driving much, you need to investigate the cause.

3. The Smell of Gasoline Inside the Car

Another sign there’s gas is leaking is if you notice a strong, pungent smell of gasoline inside your car’s cabin.

You most certainly have a fuel leak if you smell gas, even though you don’t see any puddles under the car. However, there are many other reasons your car might smell like gas.

4. Decreased Fuel Efficiency

If your car is suddenly getting worse gas mileage than before, there’s a chance that gasoline is leaking from the fuel system.

When your fuel efficiency decreases, it’s often an indication that a problem with the fuel system needs to be addressed.

5. Check Engine Light

In newer cars, a gas leak can trigger the check engine light in your car.

Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced technologies that can detect and report fuel system problems.

If your check engine light is triggered and you notice any of the symptoms above, it’s a clear indication of an issue with the fuel system.

Why is Gas Pouring Out of the Bottom of My Car?

Now that you’ve confirmed the symptoms you’ve noticed on your car are related to a gas leak, it’s time to figure out why the gas is leaking.

1. Loose or Damaged Gas Lines and Hoses

One of the most common gas leak causes is loose or damaged gas lines and hoses.

The fuel lines are responsible for connecting the engine to your fuel tank, so any problem with these lines can result in a leak.

These parts are under constant stress due to the high pressure of the gasoline flowing through them.

Over time, they can become brittle and crack, which will cause fuel to leak out.

Additionally, excessive vibrations from driving on rough terrains, or even simple wear and tear, can cause gas lines to loosen or become damaged.

Fuel lines not appropriately fitted can also leak, especially if they are damaged or worn.

Another common cause of fuel lines taking damage is oxygenated fuel being used in a car that has got hoses not compatible with the new type of eco-friendly gas.

Because the early gasoline filler hose is not compatible with the current ethanol/gasoline mixture, 10 to 15% ethanol blended with gasoline or an 85% ethanol/gasoline mixture can cause the filler hose to swell, soften, and leak.

2. Busted Gaskets

Another possible cause of a gas leak is a busted gasket that keeps the fuel lines enclosed.

Gaskets and seals degrade over time from the gasoline pressure, eventually leading to cracks and leaks.

3. Damaged Gas Tank

The gas tank on your vehicle could also be the reason why gas is pouring out of the bottom of your car.

If you are leaking fuel, it’s possible that the fuel tank itself is damaged and can no longer contain gasoline properly.

If your gas tank has been dented, cracked, or otherwise damaged, it will need to be replaced.

With this issue, you probably wouldn’t even be able to drive to the gas station to fill the tank up.

How Do I Fix a Gas Leak?

As you now know why your car is leaking gas, the next step is figuring out how to fix it.

Replacing the fuel lines and gaskets is tricky and should be done by a professional mechanic.

Autos Pack is all about DIY auto maintenance and repair, but some jobs are best left to the professionals.

As gasoline is highly flammable and dangerous to work with, a simple mistake could lead to fatal consequences.

For your safety and the safety of your car, we recommend taking your vehicle to a qualified mechanic to have the fuel system repaired.

Gas Leak Repair Cost

If a fuel line is the only issue, it would cost around $60 to $120 to replace. If you have multiple leaks or a damaged gas tank, the repair could cost upwards of $300 or more, VEHQ states.

Can I Drive My Car with a Fuel Leak?

Absolutely not! Driving with a gas leak is incredibly dangerous that could lead to a fire or explosion. Even if the gas leak is small, it’s not worth the risk.

Summary

If you notice your car is leaking gas, it’s essential to determine the cause and address it as soon as possible.

Some common signs of a gas leak include puddles of gasoline under the car, decreased fuel efficiency, and a strong smell of gas inside the cabin.

The most common causes of a gas leak are loose or damaged fuel lines, busted gaskets, and damage to the gas tank.

To fix a gas leak, it’s best to take your car to a qualified mechanic.