Hello, I recently bought a used 2004 scion XA with a 5 speed manual transmission with about 116,000 miles on it. About a couple days ago I filled up the tank to full when I noticed there was a gas smell coming from the car. I can smell the fuel from inside the vehicle near the rear driver side seat and outside the vehicle as well. The source of the smell seemed to be coming from outside of the vehicle, around the rear end of the car. I assume that the fumes are making its way to the cabin through the outside of the car. I am almost 90% sure it is not the gas cap since I personally put my nose near it and could say it is not coming out from there.
As I use the car and the gas level goes down, I notice that the fuel smell becomes less prominent. I noticed it was going away after the car was 3/4 full. I am now 1/4 on gas and there is no smell whatsoever.
(side note: the previous owner mentioned that he replaced the fuel neck of the vehicle for some reason)
If there is any additional information I should provide please let me know/If I should perform any tests and post the results to further breakdown the situation.
Do you stop when the pump clicks, or do you try to top off the tank right to the brim?
I stopped when the pump clicks. I haven't filled it up to full since.
previous owner mentioned that he replaced the fuel neck
he may have used the wrong part, or a used one in poor condition, or not connected the vent properly.
Sounds like your vapor canister is bad or filled with gas. Another possibility is your vapor purge valve is bad. It is possible the gas tank itself has a crack someplace but I've personally never heard of these tanks having that issue. You could also have a crack in the filler neck.
My best guess is the canister or valve/solenoid
