Vehicle is 2018 Mazda CX5.

Happy thanksgiving, y’all. Nothin like a panic inducing car problem on a holiday weekend.

So, I was in my car on Tuesday, everything was great.

I got my car on Wednesday, noticed a faint smell of gas. I thought it’d clear up, but about 5 mins in, I realized the gas smell was BAD and getting worse.

By the time I got it back home, all within maybe 10-15 min, it looked like there was a tiny bit of white smoke (please note: I’m not entirely sure of this because I was freaked out and panicking. My roommate says no white smoke, I said yes, small puffs of white smoke) and there was a gas trail following me.

Obviously, I need a professional to see the vehicle to assess the problem, but honestly, I’m scared to start the car, never mind drive it to a mechanic.

Can I start the car to further take a look or is this an issue that calls for a tow truck?

I will take any advice or potential diagnoses on the problem as I’m clearly clueless and upset.