Check engine light on, gas smell from left side of car

[Lvevans55]

Hi! I have a 2005 XC90 (2.5T) which I have only owned for a year, has 137K miles. I have had no issues until the past couple of months when I noticed a faint gas smell from outside the vehicle. This happened intermittently and was strongest at the sides of vehicle (usually the left). A few days ago the temperature got down to 20 degrees and it would not start at all. The next day it started fine. Yesterday I was driving on the interstate and I noticeably lost horsepower, the engine shook a bit, and the check engine light started flashing. It has been towed to an independent Volvo mechanic, but he can't check it out until Monday. Any clue what this could be?
Note: I called Volvo about the fuel pump recall, and when I gave them my VIN they said it was not part of the recall, so if it is the pump it won't be paid for by them : (

[Roger_850T]

It could be a lot of things. Is there any chance you can scan the codes and see what the ECU thinks it's problem is? That's always helpful and a good place to start.

Roger

[Lvevans55]

Unfortunately I cant because It's already at the shop

[Roger_850T]

It could be a lot of things, and not necessarily related. The fuel smell could be due to an issue with the EVAP system, but that would not necessarily cause a no-start. It could be fuel pump, or it could be a sensors, or it could be a split or tear in an air hose or a hose came off (which would cause your symptoms).

Good luck! Let us know what the mechanic thinks it is.

Roger

[Lvevans55]

Thanks, I will! I drove a Jeep Cherokee for 15 years, so this is my first experience with a Volvo. I bought it from my sister, the original owner, and she never had any problems so they seem like great cars!
Lucy

[Lvevans55]

It's a hole in the fuel filter and I'm overdue for new plugs!