BMW Repair: can smell petrol/gasoline fumes, fuel pump relay, fuel pump

Question
Hi Josh,

I can smell the fumes of the petrol/gasoline inside the car while driving. When you open up the hood  smell of pertol is much stronger. what's causing it?
I tried inspecting the entire engine and I couldn't find any leaking parts.
My car is E36 1991 318i Automatic

Thanks.
Edgar


Answer
Edgar,
 The only choice is to have the fuel pump run (with out the engine running) and look for leaks.  Gasoline evaporates quickly, and around a hot/warm engine it will be even more so.  So when the engine is cold, I would jump the fuel pump relay, and cause the pump to run, then look under the hood for fuel.  It would be wise to keep a fire extinguisher in the car if you plan on driving it before this is fixed.
 Good luck,
 Josh