i was wondering if any one else has had a problem with fuel leaking from the schrader valve on the fuel rail of a 2001 s60 2.4t about a week ago my mom started to smell fuel and started having issues starting after the car resting for a while. a mechanic recommended a fuel pump but when the car runs its fine it only has a problem at start up. i noticed when i tried to check for fuel pressure that fuel started spraying out the valve as soon as i started taking off the cap.
could i just clean and replace the valve or is this a sign of a more serious problem. the car has over 200,000 miles.

 

the cold start problem sounds like the car is bleeding pressure out of the fuel rail over time. Most common cause is a torn diaphram in a fuel pressure regulator which leaks gas into the intake via its vacuum line (ie no external wetness). I have never heard of the schrader valve leaking as a common problem but dealers sell a replacement (google Volvo 8658302 for a picture). Do you see any wetness with the cap on?

 

thank you for replying. its not wet but that part of the fuel rail is very clean. and as soon as i try to remove the cap fuel starts spraying out of the valve

 

You must change the schrader valve to avoid the risk of a gasoline fire. The plastic cap is not adequate at all.