I'm considering purchasing a used 2003 Outback.  The car is in beautiful condition and only has 124,000 miles (low for its age).  However, I'm concerned about a fuel smell in the passenger compartment.  When we test drove it in cold weather conditions (14 degrees F), the car warmed up very nicely and very quickly after having been parked outside over night.  When the car is stopped and idling, and the heat is set to fresh air, there is a strong smell of gas.  When we started driving again, the smell dissipates.  If we switch to recirculating air, the smell goes away, but that doesn't work when we switch to defrost, as it needs fresh air intake.  Any ideas as to what might cause this, and if it is enough to sway a buying decision?  Thanks.

Usually a pretty minor fix, Gas fill Pipe or Evap canister hose.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

pip

This is often caused my loose hose clamps on the fuel rails. There are a few sorta hidden ones under the intake manifold. It's a common enough issue you can find a decent amount of information on how to fix it. It almost always happens when it's cold, then goes away when it warms up just like your'e describing. 

 

Don't tell the people you're buying it from that it's an easy fix... Use it as a bargaining point.

if you get and fix the car. please tell us what you find? thanx

Towards front of vehicle: Engine bay - intake manifold - fuel lines are leaking.  tighten up the clamps or replace.

 

If you smell it towards the back of the vehicle then it's likely a rusty fuel filler pipe.