BMW 4 Stalling & Fuel Smell: Fix Needed Fast

Hey there! I had almost identical issues with my 2020 BMW 3 Series last year. The symptoms you're describing match exactly what I experienced, fuel smell, stalling at idle, and the check engine light. Turned out to be a defective activated charcoal filter in the EVAP system. Took it to my trusted mechanic who diagnosed it properly. The repair involved replacing the entire charcoal canister assembly and purge valve. Not a hugely complex job, but definitely not something for DIY unless you're really experienced. The repair resolved all symptoms completely, and I haven't had any issues since. Your suspicion about the fuel tank ventilation system is probably spot-on. The activated charcoal filter is part of that system, and when it fails, it causes exactly these symptoms. It's not a catastrophic issue, but you shouldn't drive too long with it since the fuel vapors aren't being properly contained. Try to get it checked soon, these symptoms typically don't resolve themselves and could potentially get worse. Best of luck

Thanks for sharing your experience! That's super helpful as the symptoms match perfectly. I'm relieved to hear it wasn't anything more serious. How much did you end up paying for the repair if you don't mind me asking? Also, have you had any other small issues pop up since they fixed it? Just want to make sure I'm prepared for what might come next.

Hey again! No problem at all! Just wanted to give you a quick update, I took your advice and got it fixed right away. The mechanic confirmed it was exactly what you said, the activated charcoal filter in the EVAP system. The total bill came to 275 € and honestly, it was worth every penny. Since they replaced the filter, the car's running like a dream, no more fuel smells, no stalling, and that annoying check engine light is finally gone! And to answer your question about other issues, nope, absolutely nothing else has popped up since the repair. It's been smooth sailing all the way. The fuel tank ventilation system is working perfectly now. I'm actually kicking myself for not getting it fixed sooner, you know how we sometimes put these things off! You're definitely doing the right thing getting it checked out. These BMW systems are pretty robust once they're properly fixed. Just make sure you get a mechanic who knows what they're doing with these specific models. Let me know how it goes with yours!

Thanks so much for the follow-up! I finally got my car checked out yesterday, and wow, what a difference! Found a really good mechanic through a and they sorted everything out. The bill was actually a bit less than what you paid, around 250 €, which was a nice surprise. You were absolutely right about getting it fixed quickly. The mechanic showed me the old charcoal filter, and it was completely shot. They replaced it along with the purge valve, just like in your case. Took the car for a test drive this morning, no more fuel smell, engine runs perfectly, and that pesky check engine light is finally off. I feel so much better now knowing it's all sorted. Should've done this weeks ago instead of worrying about it. Really appreciate you sharing your experience, helped me stop overthinking and just get it done. The mechanic even gave it a quick inspection and said everything else looks great, so hopefully no more surprises for a while! Thanks again for all your help!