Hey guys I just want to start by saying thank you. There are so many helpful threads and answers on this site that have helped with many of my questions and concerns. I'm new to owning an rx8 so bear with me if I seem to be a bit of a noob.

So I got my car used about 3 months ago (04 6MT 36k miles). Since I've gotten the car it's been running fine although a few weeks ago I had changed 2 ignition coils as they were causing misfires, stalling, and a CEL. After the change of coils my car has had faster starts, smoother idling and overall seemed more healthy. Being used, I'm unsure of previous maintenance such as change of plugs, coils etc.

Fast forward a couple of weeks to last week from now and I've been having an issue. about 70% of the time I start my car there is a very strong smell of gas on the outside only(if windows are up I don't smell it). As soon as I move the car/get it up to temp however the smell goes away. It isn't there when I arrive to whatever destination I may be going or while idling in traffic. I've checked the ground and there are no apparent leaking fluids although I haven't gone as far as inspect actual gas lines themselves. Car still runs fine, the smell is the only problem so far and only on start up. Any ideas?

 

See if you can pinpoint if the smell is from the engine bay or tailpipe.

Engine bay = fuel line leak that is incredibly dangerous and needs to be fixed asap, preferably without driving the car

Tailpipe = likely a failing cat from your ignition failure, and as long as it isn't a clog it isn't a real problem (until you get to emissions time), though if it is clogging, it could damage the engine, sensors, and possibly start a car fire.


No fuel smell inside rules out a leak at the fuel pump (under the driver's side rear seat)

 

Ah of course the moment I bring this up the smell doesn't happen. I drove my car to and from work today and out of starting the car both times it did not happen so I couldn't pinpoint the smell.

Just curious could it be a possible ignition issue? For example old spark plugs not combusting all of the fuel during startup causing the smell to only be present then because its momentarily running very rich?

 

I noticed late last year that on starting when cold, I would idle in my garage for a couple of mins to let the engine warm up a little, and there was a bizarre smell coming from the exhaust. Not like gasoline. Almost plastic-y. I thought it could have been the Amsoil synthetic oil that I was using. Subsequently I discovered I had a failing coil, so I replaced the coils with a BHR set. Now on cold startup, I get a regular gasoline smell coming from the exhaust on initial start up, and the weird smell is gone.

I thought it was just because it runs so rich when cold.

 

You really need to be able to distinguish whether the smell is from the exhaust or raw fuel from under the hood as mentioned by RIWWP.

The fuel rail is under the UIM and some what of a PITA to see/work on but that is the area I would be checking for pool of fuel.

You could try just turning the key to the on position so the fuel pump comes on and pressurizes the system. Then with a flash light try and have a look underneath the UIM area for leaks/moisture

 

Another thought is to change the other two coils.

Is there a reason you did not do plugs and wires? There are a lot of years on the ignition parts.

Also, outside temps might help.

And, welcome

 

So this time I started my car it seemed to come out of the tailpipe, but as it dissipated I walked over to the front and it smelled slightly like gas up front. Not sure how to diagnose with that combination. I've already scheduled an appointment with a local mechanic but the soonest he was available isnt until friday. I need the car as it is my only transportation for school and work. not sure what to do.

In response to the coils I had 2 changed because my mechanic said the others were working properly, wiring was changed but plugs were not (also because "they were working properly")

 

Bump

Fuel smell is definitely coming from the engine bay. Once again my garage appt is for Friday but I have no choice but to use the car in the meantime. Anything I can do to prevent or help the situation in the meantime?

 

the fuel line clips by the drv side fender have been know to fail. was your engine ever replaced? those clips should always be replaced if you remove them. if you have raw fuel in the engine bay you risk burning your car to the ground

 

where are you from op?

 

As far as I know the engine has never been replaced, do you have a link or picture that would lead me to where these clips are located exactly? And I'm in New York

 

im in pa and hosting a big 8 meet on sunday but if your car is not safe to drive i wouldnt. ill see if i can find a pic from my n02 install

 

the red clip is what you should check. dont mind the rest of it cause i had nitrous

 

Thanks so much for the pic! i'll check first thing in the morning. And it's a shame about the meet, I would have loved to attend.

 

i might have a spare clip in my garage, its used but works. not recommended tho. if yours is leaking push it on tight and zip tie it but get a replacement stat