If you smell anything strange in your automobile, do not ignore the odor. Rather, bring your vehicle to our shop so we can inspect the automobile to find out what is wrong. Once we know what the problem is, we will provide a detailed estimate of what it will take to fix it. Let’s talk below about the strange engine odors that should not be ignored.
Burning Electricity
Burning electricity odors such as burning rubber or wires is a sign that the electrical system is overheating. Generally, the alternator will never produce more than 14.5 volts of electricity. If the alternator is malfunctioning, it may produce excess electricity and overheat the system.
Burning Oil
It can be dangerous to drive your automobile if the electrical system is overheating because it can cause an electrical fire. It can also be dangerous to drive your automobile if you smell burning oil. This is a sign that the engine is leaking motor oil or the transmission is burning transmission oil.
Burning Sulfur
Stepping away from the engine for just a moment, burning sulfur odors are a sign that you need a new catalytic converter. You may smell these odors in the engine or underneath the automobile. Sulfur odors in the engine are also a sign that you have a battery leak and need a new battery.
Fuel or Exhaust Odors
If you pick up on exhaust or fuel odors in the passenger cabin, the exhaust manifold is leaking. This can also happen if the exhaust manifold gasket is leaking. In addition, exhaust odors in the passenger cabin can be a sign that somebody stole the catalytic converter.
Musty Odors
Musty odors coming through the vents suggest that you have a mildew problem in the ventilation system. If you are running the air conditioner, turn it off. Turn on the fan and set it on the high setting. This will help to dry out the ventilation system and dry up the mildew.
Sweet Syrup
Finally, an odor that smells like maple syrup generally comes from the engine coolant. If this is the case, and your engine is overheating, you may have blown the head gasket. You may also have a leaking intake manifold, radiator, or cooling system.
Call us today to schedule a service appointment for your automobile if you are picking up on strange odors. We will inspect the vehicle thoroughly to find out from where the odor is coming.