Cannot Refuel/Strong Fuel Odor From Fuel Filler While Refueling

2003 Nissan-Datsun Frontier Base, StandardSECTION Cannot Refuel/Strong Fuel Odor From Fuel Filler While Refueling
  1. Remove EVAP canister along with EVAP canister vent control valve. Weigh EVAP canister with vent valve attached. If EVAP canister weighs less than 4 lbs. (1.8 kg), go to next step. If canister weighs more than specified, go to step  3.
  2. If water drains from EVAP canister, go to next step. If no water drains from canister, go to step  6.
  3. Replace EVAP canister. After repairs, go to next step.
  4. Check water separator. See WATER SEPARATOR . If water separator tests okay, go to next step. If water separator does not test okay, replace water separator.
  5. Check vacuum hose between EVAP canister and water separator for clogging or poor connections. If problem is found, replace vacuum hose. After repair, retest system.
  6. Check vent hoses and tubes between EVAP canister and refueling control valve for clogging, kinks, looseness or improper connections. If no problem is found, go to next step. If problem is found, repair or replace hoses or tubes as necessary.
  7. Check signal and recirculation lines for clogging, dents or cracks. If no problem is found, go to next step. If problem is found, repair as necessary.
  8. Check refuel control valve. See REFUELING CONTROL VALVE . If no problem is found, go to next step. If problem is found, repair as necessary.
  9. NOTE: Refueling EVAP vapor cut valve can only be replaced by replacing fuel tank.
  10. Check refueling EVAP vapor cut valve. See REFUELING EVAP VAPOR CUT VALVE . If no problem is found, go to next step. If problem is found, replace refueling EVAP vapor cut valve.
  11. Check fuel filler tube and hose between fuel tank and gas cap for clogging, dents or cracks. If no problem is found, go to next step. If problem is found, replace refueling EVAP vapor cut valve.
  12. Drain fuel from tank. Remove fuel filler tube and hose. Using a small wooden dowel, attempt to open one-way check valve. Check valve should open and close when pushed with dowel. Check one-way fuel check valve for sticking or clogging. If no problem is found, testing is complete. If problem is found, replace fuel tank along with check valve.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.