Fuel pressure regulator (damper) failed allowing fuel to flow into engine compartment and fumes through air intake into passenger compartment. Could have been a serious fire if not detected in time and repaired.

- Narragansett, RI, USA

Over the last few years, I have periodically complained to my Toyota of tucson (auto mall) service dept. That my '98 ES300 periodically produces intense gasoline odor in the passenger compartment. It can happen at any time, many months apart. The fumes seem to be swept in through A/C or heating vents, and can continue for the duration of a local drive, only to disappear the next time the car is started. The problem does not seem to follow any pattern -- not just after fill-up; not just at start-up; not just when engine hot or cold. The dealer has not been able to duplicate the problem and has offered no fix. Now, with long-known Toyota problems beginning to be acknowledged by the company, I am wondering if there is, in fact, some corporate or NHTSA awareness of a gas leak issue.

- Tucson, AZ, USA

: the contact stated while driving at 65 mph the accelerator pedal was depressed to pass another vehicle and the vehicle would not accelerate. The contact managed to pull the vehicle off the road. Upon inspection gasoline was pouring out onto the engine. The vehicle was towed to a dealership, and the fuel pressure damper was replaced. The manufacturer was contacted. Updated 03/17/06.

- San Diego, CA, USA