Last night a fire truck (hook and ladder) showed up in my driveway. I went out to see what was going on. As I walked out the door I noticed three firemen looking under and around my 2002 Jeep Wrangler. When I asked what was going on the firemen indicated that there was a strong smell of gas reported by on of my neighbors! turn out the smell was gasoline and was indeed originating from my 2002 Jeep Wrangler. We brought the Jeep into the shop and the dealership was able to diagnose the cause and informed me that there was a solenoid purge value associated with the fuel system that went bad and when this happens the excess fuel is discharged out the exhaust system and that was what we were smelling. The failure of this component causes the vehicle to run rich, foul spark plugs, reduce mileage and yes, there's the concern over the excess fuel, not to mention the "check engine light" was also now on. The Jeep has ~32K miles and is now past 3 years (3yr/36miles) however we purchased the "extended warranty" which as it turns out does not cover this failed component. Cost $180 to us. My concerns: 1. fire hazard" the smell was very strong! strong enough to warrant a visit by the local fire department! 2. fuel economy....$2.15/gallon for 87 octane 3. environmental concerns? the way I understand it is the excess fuel is routed straight out the exhaust system! do I really want to go off reading with this vehicle spewing excess gasoline out the exhaust as I take in the sights and sounds of the road less traveled? my question: Is this component failure common? is the failure mode environmentally friendly? are there any concerns to my well being in the event we have a recurrence? has anyone seen this before"

- Beverly, MA, USA