Hey guys, trying to figure out what you think the issue may be with my car. It may be two separate problems but they both started around the same time. I got the CEL probably 4-6 months ago and didn't think much of it. Within the last month it's had trouble starting and it's been eating gas like crazy. Full list of issues:

1. Went to Autozone and get the CEL code scanned, and it's P1457 (EVAP leak)
2. Poor gas mileage around 18 MPG from its original 30 MPG.
3. Tough to start. I turn the ignition and it cranks multiple times, and sometimes it starts. Typically I stop, and turn it again and it starts more quickly. Anytime I turn the car off and try to start it, it starts immediately.
4. I smell gas typically at rest when driving (red light, stop sign, etc.)
5. Yesterday I was pumping gas and the pump kept shutting off automatically. Did this like 6 times.

I've done research and it seems like it can be the EVAP shut off valve, charcoal canister, maybe some other EVAP issue. I'm going to get a mechanic to take a look and hopefully get it fixed (I need to pass emission test by end of month ). If you think you know what the problem may be, any help is appreciated. I will post the solution once it's all fixed.

 

No car make/model/year information provided. Moved to the general non car specific tech section.