Did you know that your nose can actually identify certain warning signs of vehicular trouble? Different smells may imply particular problems with your vehicle, and picking up on these smells early on can spare you time and money on auto repairs. Continue reading to learn which automotive smells to be on the lookout for, and what to do if you detect any of these odors in your vehicle.
Unusual Car Smells
If you buy a car right off the market, you can expect that tell-tale new car smell. But after sometime, that new car smell wears off, and what replaces it depends on your interior automotive hygiene. However, it is possible to smell odors in your vehicle that are different from the food, smoke, perfume, and other odors that may generally occupy your interior. In this case, the presence of unusual odors could be a sign that something is mechanically wrong with your car. Below are the 6 most common automotive odors that may indicate an automotive problem.
Look Out for These Automotive Odors:
Gasoline – If you smell gas, it could mean that your vehicle has a gas leak somewhere in the fuel injection line or fuel tank. Since gasoline is highly flammable, it is vital that you take immediate action. Have a licensed mechanic locate the cause of the smell and make the necessary repairs to get your vehicle back to a safe driving condition.
Burnt Rubber – The smell of burnt rubber could indicate that your engine has slipping drive belts or loose hoses that are rubbing against the rotating accessory drive pulleys. This calls for professional auto repair.
Burnt Carpet – Smelling burnt carpet is a serious sign since it usually indicates a problem with a vehicle’s braking system. This is a serious safety hazard that should be addressed by a professional mechanic immediately upon discovery.
Hot Oil – Hot oil smells could mean that your car has an oil leak that is causing oil to get into the exhaust system. If you also see smoke coming from the hood, or oil on the pavement below, it is most likely an oil leak. This calls for professional service.
Sweet Syrupy Smell – Sweet syrupy smells are an odd odor to experience in your vehicle, but they are also quite serious since they may be an indication that your vehicle has a coolant leak in its cooling system. Get professional auto service right away.
Rotten Eggs – The smell of rotten eggs, or sulfur, is a sign that your car’s catalytic converter is defective. When catalytic converters stop converting hydrogen sulfide into sulfur dioxide properly, it can cause the smell of rotten eggs. This sign requires immediate professional automotive service.
Never ignore odd odors in your car. Consult a licensed automotive mechanic right away if you smell something unusual, especially while driving under normal conditions.
