Car Smells and What the Issue Could Be

You may not always realize that something is wrong with your car. However, sometimes you may start to notice a smell, which can tell you quite a bit about a possible problem that the vehicle is having. Although car issues can be complicated, you can start to get an idea of the underlying problem before contacting our technicians for repairs.

Burned Rubber

Burning rubber odors can mean several different things. This issue is most often connected to worn brakes or another problem in the braking system. It is also sometimes linked to something in the engine, including an oil leak. Since engine failure can result from leaking oil that isn't corrected, this smell is a sign that you may want to make an appointment for service as soon as possible. The brakes may also need to be fixed if they're smelling like burning rubber, which can mean that their components are wearing out. You may ultimately need to have a technician inspect and replace the brakes.

Gym Clothes

This is another unpleasant smell that car owners may discover in their vehicles. The gym clothes smell can start when mold and mildew multiply in the car's air conditioning system. Mold and mildew thrive in the warm conditions that the a/c unit produces when you turn the car on and start running the a/c. They are especially prone to multiplying in the a/c compressor, which may need to be cleaned by a mechanic. Try airing out the system by starting the fan.

Burned Carpet

A smell that resembles a burning carpet can also be linked to a problem with the braking system. This smell can start if the brake pads wear out. Your emergency brake can also smell if it's still up when you drive. Braking suddenly or riding the brakes can cause this smell, too.

Syrup

A syrupy smell can warn you of mechanical trouble. This smell often comes from leaking coolant fluid. The coolant fluid is critical for protecting the engine, so you should contact a mechanic if this smell starts getting stronger.

Sulfur or Rotten Eggs

The unpleasant smell of rotten eggs may start when the engine is not running as well as it normally does. This problem may also result from a catalytic converter. This part can stop processing gases correctly, which creates the smell.

Contact our staff at Superstition Springs Lexus to schedule an appointment if your car shows these or any other bad smells.