Car Smells and What the Issue Could Be

If you don't have fast food containers lying around, you may be dealing with a problem if your car starts to smell funny. Cars will produce strange smells if something is wrong. Smells can start from virtually any part of your car. Some smells might mean it's time to head right to the shop for repairs, while you may be able to correct other issues on your own.

Burned Rubber

The clutch, hoses, and brakes can all be a source of a burning smell. The hoses beneath the hood can start to smell like burning rubber when they become loose. The clutch can also start smelling like burning rubber when it burns out. The brakes can produce the smell when the brake pads wear out and can't protect the metal components.

Gym Clothes

A smell of wet clothes may signal issues with the air conditioning unit, namely the air conditioning evaporator. The A/C evaporator can collect mold, which will accrue in specific environmental conditions. Mold buildup happens rapidly with moisture and in the absence of fresh air and light. Therefore, it's important to let the air circulate through the A/C system by running the fan periodically, which dries out the system and keeps mold from forming on the surface.

Burned Carpet

Brake problems can also cause a smell similar to burning carpet or similar materials. Some drivers say the smell resembles burning plastic, too. This smell may come on suddenly when you've just used the brakes too much, such as stopping suddenly or frequently while driving. If you ride around with the emergency brake on, the brakes may also smell like they are burning.

Syrup

A syrup smell likely indicates a coolant fluid leak. The leak can start in a few different areas, but it will need a professional's expert fix to avoid the engine's damage. The smell may be strongest when you start the car or after the engine has had a chance to warm up.

Sulfur or Rotten Eggs

Rotten eggs, an equally unpleasant odor, usually starts when there is a problem with the engine or a part in the exhaust or mechanical system, such as the catalytic converter. A problem with either part should be fixed by a professional technician right away to avoid serious damage.

If your car has strange smells, contact or visit our Toyota dealership today.