Gasoline Smell Inside Car 2017 Honda Fury: Diagnosis & Fixes

Noticing a persistent gasoline smell inside your car 2017 Honda Fury can be alarming and is never normal. While a motorcycle isn't a 'car,' the term 'inside car' is a common search query for any vehicle type experiencing this issue, and for a Fury owner, it means the smell is noticeable while riding or when the bike is parked. This odor indicates a potential fuel leak or an issue with the fuel system, which can pose a fire hazard and negatively impact your bike's performance and your health. Addressing it promptly is crucial for safety and peace of mind.

What drivers notice on this 2017 Honda Fury

Owners of a 2017 Honda Fury often first detect the smell of gasoline either while riding, especially at stops, or shortly after parking the bike. The odor might be faint at first but can become stronger over time, indicating a worsening leak. It's a distinct raw fuel smell, not exhaust fumes, and it can permeate clothing and gear, making the riding experience unpleasant.

At a glance: difficulty, repair cost, and diagnostic workflow

• Difficulty Rating: 6/10 — Moderate
• Common Symptoms: Visible fuel leaks: Puddles or drips under the bike, especially after it's been parked.; Wet spots: Fuel residue on the engine, frame, or around the fuel tank/filler cap.; Reduced fuel economy: If fuel is leaking, your mileage will suffer.; Difficulty starting: Severe leaks might cause fuel pressure issues, making the bike hard to start.
• Estimated Repair Cost: $100–$900 (parts + typical shop labor)
• OEM Tooling Required: Standard OBD-II scanner and hand tools

Diagnostic workflow:

1. Confirm the symptom on your vehicle.
2. Scan for stored or pending codes with an OBD-II tool.
3. Inspect the most common causes in this guide (visual checks first).
4. Run verification tests before replacing parts.
5. Repair, clear codes, and verify on a test drive.

Symptoms and warning signs

Beyond the obvious odor, a gasoline smell on your 2017 Honda Fury can be accompanied by other indicators:

• Visible fuel leaks: Puddles or drips under the bike, especially after it's been parked.
• Wet spots: Fuel residue on the engine, frame, or around the fuel tank/filler cap.
• Reduced fuel economy: If fuel is leaking, your mileage will suffer.
• Difficulty starting: Severe leaks might cause fuel pressure issues, making the bike hard to start.
• Engine performance issues: Rough idle, misfires, or a general lack of power if fuel delivery is compromised.
• Check engine light (MIL): While less common for simple leaks on older systems, a persistent EVAP system leak could trigger it (though the Fury's EVAP system is simpler than a car's).

How to verify and confirm the issue

Confirming the source of a gasoline smell on your 2017 Honda Fury requires careful inspection. Always ensure the bike is cool and in a well-ventilated area before beginning.

• Visual inspection: Start by carefully examining the fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump area (under the tank), fuel injector area, and the charcoal canister (if equipped). Look for any signs of wetness, discoloration, or actual dripping fuel. Pay close attention to connections and clamps.
• Sniff test: Get close to different components of the fuel system while the bike is off. The source of the strongest smell is likely the leak point.
• Fuel cap check: Ensure the fuel cap is securely tightened. A loose or faulty fuel cap seal is a very common and simple cause of fuel odors.
• Engine running check: With extreme caution, start the bike and let it idle. Observe if any leaks become more apparent under pressure. Never perform this near open flames or sparks. Use a bright flashlight.
• Check for TSBs: While less common for simple leaks, check Honda service bulletins for known issues related to fuel system components on the 2017 Fury model year.

Common causes (most likely first)

Pinpointing the exact source requires a systematic approach. Here are the most common culprits for a gasoline smell on a 2017 Honda Fury:

• Loose or faulty fuel cap: The most frequent and easiest fix. The cap's seal can degrade or simply be left loose.
• Cracked or deteriorated fuel lines: Over time, rubber or plastic fuel lines can crack, especially at connection points, leading to small, persistent leaks.
• Leaking fuel tank: Rust, impact damage, or manufacturing defects can cause leaks in the tank itself. Check welds and seams.
• Fuel injector O-rings/seals: If the leak is near the engine, the O-rings sealing the fuel injectors to the manifold can deteriorate, causing fuel to seep out.
• Fuel pump gasket/seal: The fuel pump is typically mounted inside or on top of the fuel tank. Its sealing gasket can fail, allowing fuel vapor or liquid to escape.
• Charcoal canister/EVAP system issue: The evaporative emissions control system (EVAP) captures fuel vapors. If the canister is saturated, a vent line is clogged, or a hose is disconnected, fuel vapors can escape into the atmosphere.

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Step-by-step diagnosis and fixes

1. Safety first: Ensure the bike is cool, on a stable stand, and in a well-ventilated area. Have a fire extinguisher nearby.
2. Inspect fuel cap: Remove and inspect the fuel cap's rubber seal for cracks or damage. Ensure it clicks securely into place when reinstalled.
3. Visual inspection of fuel lines: Trace all fuel lines from the tank to the engine. Look for cracks, chafing, or loose clamps. Gently wiggle lines to check for play.
4. Check fuel tank: Look under the tank, around the petcock (if present), and the fuel pump mounting area for any signs of leakage. Use a mirror if necessary for hard-to-see spots.
5. Examine injector area: Carefully inspect around the fuel injectors for any wetness or residue. This may require removing some fairings or covers.
6. Test for leaks under pressure: If no obvious leak is found, a professional might use a smoke machine or fuel pressure gauge to pinpoint tiny leaks in the EVAP or fuel delivery system. For a DIYer, carefully observing for drips while the engine idles can reveal small leaks.
7. Tighten connections: If a loose clamp or fitting is found, gently tighten it. Do not overtighten, as this can damage components.
8. Replace faulty components: Once the source is identified, replace the damaged part (e.g., fuel line, O-ring, fuel cap, gasket). Refer to your Honda Fury service manual for specific torque specs and procedures. For detailed repair guides, visit our All repair guides section.

Repair options and cost factors

Repairing a gasoline smell generally involves replacing the leaking component. Costs vary significantly depending on the part and whether you perform the repair yourself or hire a professional.

• Fuel cap: Relatively inexpensive, often under $50 for an OEM replacement.
• Fuel lines/clamps: Can range from a few dollars for a short section of hose and clamps to $50-$100+ for pre-formed lines.
• Fuel injector O-rings: Typically inexpensive, often under $20 for a set.
• Fuel pump gasket/seal: Often sold as part of a fuel pump kit or separately, usually $20-$50.
• Fuel tank repair/replacement: This can be the most expensive, with new tanks costing several hundred dollars. Repairing a small tank leak might be possible with specialized sealants, but replacement is often safer for significant damage.
• Charcoal canister/EVAP components: Can range from $50 to $200+ depending on the specific part.

Labor costs at a professional shop will add to these figures, typically $80-$150 per hour.

When to see a professional

While many minor fuel leaks can be diagnosed and fixed by a competent DIYer, there are times when professional help is advisable:

• You cannot locate the leak: If after thorough inspection, the source remains elusive.
• Complex fuel system issues: Problems requiring specialized tools like a smoke machine for EVAP diagnostics or specific fuel pressure testing equipment.
• Safety concerns: If you are uncomfortable working with fuel, or if the leak is significant and poses an immediate fire risk.
• Lack of proper tools: Some repairs require specific wrenches, torque wrenches, or other specialized tools.
• After an accident: If the bike was involved in a collision, a professional inspection of the fuel system is paramount.

For more information on your specific model, you can browse our Browse vehicles section.

Frequently asked questions

Is a gasoline smell dangerous on a motorcycle?

Yes, a gasoline smell on a motorcycle, like your 2017 Honda Fury, is dangerous because it indicates a potential fuel leak. Gasoline is highly flammable, and even a small leak can create a fire hazard, especially near hot engine components or electrical sparks. It also poses health risks due to inhaling fuel vapors.

Can a loose gas cap cause a strong fuel smell?

A loose or faulty gas cap is one of the most common and often overlooked causes of a strong fuel smell. The cap's seal is designed to prevent fuel vapors from escaping the tank. If the cap isn't tightened correctly or its rubber seal is cracked or worn, fuel vapors can easily escape, leading to a noticeable gasoline odor.

How long can I ride my 2017 Honda Fury with a fuel smell?

It is strongly advised not to ride your 2017 Honda Fury if you detect a persistent fuel smell. Even a seemingly minor leak can quickly worsen or ignite, leading to a dangerous situation. It's best to diagnose and repair the issue before continuing to ride to ensure your safety and prevent potential damage to the motorcycle.

Sources and further reading

• 2017 Honda Fury Service Manual
• Motorcycle fuel system diagnostics guides

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for OEM service procedures; always use a qualified technician for safety-critical work.

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• Browse vehicles

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