Normal Vs Emergency Vehicle Smells
Depending on how clean you keep your car, it can eventually start to take on an odor based on the things inside. But not all smells in your car come from your gym bag in the back seat or lunch trash from yesterday. Sometimes, new smells can indicate car problems, simple and severe. Your First Tire & Auto technicians can walk you through some common scents and what they mean for your car.
Normal Car Smells
Not every smell in your vehicle will be something to be alarmed about. As mentioned earlier, if you can track a scent to a particular item that you put in your car — food, clothes, etc. — then it is obviously not a cause for concern. Additionally, the ‘new car smell’ or any air fresheners are completely fine.
Dangerous Car Smells and What They Mean
If you notice any of these smells in or around your car, it is worth checking on the potential causes, whether that is done by you or by your local automotive techs.
Burning Rubber or Burning Oil Smell
The smell of burning rubber or oil in your vehicle could be caused by a few things. Worn brakes or other brake system issues will cause the smell, as well as a slipping clutch, underinflated tires, loose or worn belts and hoses, or even leaking oil.
Rotten Egg Smell
A rotten egg car smell, or more accurately the smell of sulfur, is usually a sign of issues with the catalytic converter, though it could also be caused by issues in the fuel system.
Sweet or Maple Syrup Smell
If you notice a sweet smell similar to maple syrup while you drive, you likely have a coolant or antifreeze leak, which should be repaired quickly.
Exhaust Smell
If you are experiencing a strong smell of exhaust inside your car, your exhaust system may have a leak, or your door and window seals may not be working efficiently.
Musty or Mildew Smell
Moisture buildup in a car’s AC system can lead to mold and mildew. When the AC is turned on, the air has to blow past the mold, causing a musty smell.
Gas or Fuel Smell
A strong scent of gas or fuel can indicate issues with the fuel system — fuel tank, injector, pressure regulator, etc. — or a potential engine misfire.
Burning Plastic Smell
The smell of burning plastic can indicate a few potential car issues, all of which should be taken seriously. Worn brake pads, shorted electrical components, and an overheating AC compressor can all trigger a plasticy smell.
How to Get Rid of Car Smells
No one wants their car to smell bad, especially if the smell is caused by dangerous car problems. Luckily, the easiest way to keep your vehicle smelling the way you want it is to prevent the car issues in the first place with regular maintenance. Scheduled maintenance services catch wear and potential damage before they can cause problems — and odors — that require costly repairs.
If you do face any of these unfortunate smells and car problems, you can eliminate the smell by getting your car repaired at your local First Tire & Automotive location. We’ll help you track down the exact problem, fix it up, and send you on your way, sans smell.
If you want to get rid of your new car smell, gym bag smell, or air freshener smell, on the other hand, we recommend cleaning out your car regularly, and swapping out the freshener for something new.
