Hi
I've just got an 03 focus ST170. Really pleased with it. Only slight niggle is smell of petrol/fumes when sat in traffic. The exhaust sounds like it's blowing a little bit - could this be the cause, or should I be more concerned? Please bear in mind I have extremely limited mechanical knowledge before you respond!
Cheers
Al

 

Why not fix the blowing exhaust anyway, then see if you still have the same problem.
I would also just have a look underneath the bonnet, and at the fuel lines etc to make sure there is no leak of fuel.
tabetha

 

Its more than likely to be the flexible joint and this will cause the smell.

 

Get under the car once it is safely supported on axle stands, turn the engine on and get a mate to stick a rag in the end of the exhaust for a couple of seconds at a time, this will make any leaks in the exhaust more obvious, look for soot around joints also which is an indicator of a leak.

 

Problem solved - bloody mechanic had left the oil filler cap off! Tw@t. Fortunately spotted it before I went for my first good, hard thraping!