2004 wagon gas smell
 

I have a 2004 E320 wagon with just 28K on it and have noticed lately that when I fill it up (to the top but not top off) I have a gas smell in the garage when I bring it home. It didn't do this before. Anyone else have the same situation or any suggestions what it might be? I know gas lines can go bad but so early? I'd like to have an idea what it might be before I take it to Mercedes for costly diagonsis. Thanks, Desert

When filling a car after 1997, ALL of the gas vapors are drawn into & stored in the charcoal canister.

Called OBVR (on-board vapor recovery), sounds like you charcoal canister has been damaged.

IF there was any other type of leak you could get a check engine warning.

I've seen a bunch of 203's and 211's develop fuel leaks at the sending unit seals, which are on top of the fuel tank. You can inspect them by simply removing the rear seat bench, and then unscrewing the access covers to the sending units.

Thanks for the ideas....Could the fuel vapor canisiter have been damaged by my backing into a 4" high cement pole ( blind spot but still stupid on my part) and causing some bumper damage since repaired? Where is the canister located? I'll also check out the unit on the tank itself. Thanks again...Desert

Carcoal canister is in the RR wheel-well area, behind the tire.

Thanks....excuse my confusion but what is the "RR" wheel area? Right rear my facing the rear of the wagon? I've done front of the car work over the years but never have messed with a rear fuel systems so step by step how to access it would be very helpful if you have the time....Thanks again, Desert.

Follow up.....Talked to local MB parts man and he said they have been replacing a lot of tank sending units for this year and model, two units per tank at $315 for one and almost $500 for the other plus labor. Also the OBVR will cost about $500 plus labor. Is there any place to get these parts at less cost but good quality? Do you recommend MB garage for this type repair or would a good independent be as good with less cost...Don't think I want to try this one myself ( two things I don't like to work around, electricity and raw fuel)......Desert

Thanks for input, at least now I know what might be causing the problem and I will be able to understand what the tech is talking about when I take it in for repair......Desert