Common Car Smells Demystified

Most drivers aren’t mechanics. So when your car starts emitting a funny smell our first instinct is to bring the vehicle to a shop. In most cases, that’s a great idea, but sometimes an unusual smell is just a way for your car to tell you to ease up on the brakes or give it a good cleaning or airing out. Below are six common smells that will be helpful to add to your basic car knowledge.

Burning Oil – This smell is very distinct and is often accompanied by a thick smoke. A burning oil smell is typically caused when oil drips on part of the exhaust system. Get rid of the leak and the smell should go away.

Musty – A musty odor is caused by water that is collecting inside your vehicle and allowing mold or mildew to grow. Check for damp floor mats or upholstery and let your car air out on the next nice day.

Acrid – The source of an acrid (harsh burning) smell is usually burnt brake material. If you smell this smell make sure that your parking brake is off and be mindful that you aren’t pressing on the brakes and gas at the same time.

Gasoline – If you smell gasoline, and you didn’t just fill up at the gas station, it’s likely that there is a leak in the fuel line or bad fuel pressure. Get your vehicle looked at as soon as possible so you don’t put yourself or anyone else in any danger with this flammable liquid.

Sweet – Unless you just picked up a dozen doughnuts for the office, a sweet smell is not something you usually associate with your car. Check the pavement under your parked car for a puddle of antifreeze as the heater core may be leaking.

Sulfur – Just like burning oil, sulfur is a pretty distinctive smell. If you smell rotten eggs, bring your car in for a checkup as the catalytic converter may need repairing.

If you smell any of these smells or something not covered on the list, bring your vehicle into King Volkswagen and let us take a look!

Laukkonen, Jeremy. “Seven Reasons Your Car Stinks.” About.com Autos. N.p., 30 Sept. 2015. Web. 29 July 2016.

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