engine start faliure try again help

[GReeves]

I have only posted once before on here and that was really helpful so I thought i would ask again. My wifes car has a gas smell which we are going to get done next week but she is using the car at the moment as she needs it for work
So she has just rung me in floods of tears as our normally great 2002 vxc70 with 82,000 miles on the car wont start as it shows "engine start faliure try again". The car eventually started after alot of cranking, so my question is are the two problems realted.
The car was serviced last week including engine oil, oil filter, air filter and spark plugs. Once running it runs great.
Thanks for the help

[Q-ship]

fuel smell could mean you have a cracked fuel pump housing/failing pump. Thus requiring more "cranks" to build pressure. There is a recall for this.
Call you local dealer give them your vin, and ask if your car is included. My old one was, and they replaced the pump, for free, and even gave me a loaner (for an 04 with 105k).
they will inspect for free and replace if they deem necessary
good luck!