What are the key differences of knowing if I have a fuel leak or exhaust leak?

Question

I have a 2002 Kia Spectra. The inside of my car has been smelling like fumes the entire time I have had it. Mostly a fuel smell. It does this all the time whether the AC or heat is on. How can I know if it is an exhaust leak or a fuel leak? I have been searching around on fixya.com and I think it may be one of those. I need to get this fixed and I don't want to just walk into a repair shop and not have any idea of what they could fix because I don't have all the money in the world for them to "look at it " I am just so tired of getting out of the car and smelling like it. Help please. Much appreciated.

( I really have not had any problems with it in acception of having the alternator replaced twice in the last 2 years.)

JJ · Accepted Answer

You really need to get the fuel leak fixed or it will cost you quite a bit more when it finally gives way and quits or starts on fire. It shouldn't take a rocket scientist  to find it around the connections at the injectors or the line feeding the fuel rail. Is it possible it was injured while they were wrestling around putting the alternator on?

Russ · Answer

Go to dealer; demand help in diagnosing the problem.  They should be able to feed your engine from something other than your internal fuel system.  If the smell goes away, then it's the fuel system.  If not, it should be the exhaust - both can kill you fairly quickly.

Do it as soon as you can; plead poor to the service manager (which may be true from what you say) - but do not try to figure this out on your own.

Drive with windows down - try not to take chances.

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What are the key differences of knowing if I have a fuel leak or exhaust leak?

2 Answers