The car is designed to be odor-free despite the many types of fluids that run in its system. Unless you are enjoying the new car smell, any other odor should be checked. Here are some of the unusual smells that you should have checked:
- Hot Oil: If you smell hot oil fumes from the vehicle, it means you have a leaky crankshaft, and the oil is touching the manifold, which heats it. You may find oil on the surface on which you park.
- Sulfur (rotten eggs): The sulfur smell is an indication that the catalytic converter is not turning the hydrogen sulfide gas in the car's exhaust into sulfur dioxide. You should have the catalytic converter checked.
- Syrup: If you notice a sweet smell, especially after you turn off the engine, it could be ethylene glycol leaking out of the cooling system into hot parts of the engine. You should have the radiator checked or coolant hoses changed.
- Burned rubber: The smell of burned rubber may come from wheel friction if you are stuck in the mud. However, it could also mean that that the timing belt is loose or about to break. You should have it checked and replaced accordingly.
- Burned carpet: You notice this smell mostly when you apply brakes. It is an indication of wearing down pads or a case where you forgot to disengage the handbrake.
- Gasoline smell: A gasoline smell may emanate from splashing gasoline on the sides of the vehicle as your fuel. However, it could also mean a leakage in the fuel injection line or the vent hose. This is a major issue, which should be checked immediately as the leakage may cause fires.
- A locker room aroma: If you smell a musty odor like that of a locker room that has not been opened for a while from the car vents when you turn on the A/C, it means that the evaporator section of the air conditioning grown mold. Mold is an allergen that can cause respiratory system problems to people with heightened sensitivities.
If you notice any of these unusual smells, bring your vehicle to our auto shop for a checkup and repair.
Torque European Car Care in Raleigh, NC, explains what a rattling exhaust might mean and how to spot leaks in European vehicles.
Torque European Car Care in Raleigh, NC, shares why a cooling system flush is essential before winter, especially for Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and Audi vehicles.
If you drive a high-performance vehicle, you know how much precision and responsiveness matter. These engines are designed to deliver power efficiently, but to achieve that, every system needs to operate at peak performance. One of the most critical systems is your fuel injection system. It’s responsible for delivering the right amount of fuel to your engine at exactly the right time, ensuring optimal combustion.
Your vehicle’s timing belt might not be something you think about every day, but it keeps your engine running smoothly. If it fails, it can lead to severe engine damage and costly repairs. So how often should you replace your timing belt, and what signs suggest it’s time?
When your car starts drifting or pulling to one side while driving, it can make even a short trip stressful and potentially dangerous. A car that doesn’t track straight can affect your control, wear out your tires unevenly, and signal underlying problems that need immediate attention. Understanding the reasons behind this issue can help you act quickly to keep your vehicle safe and comfortable on the road.
BMW owners enjoy a combination of luxury, performance, and technology, but that level of engineering comes with the responsibility of proper maintenance. While BMWs are built for long-term driving enjoyment, neglecting their service needs can lead to expensive problems that could have been avoided. Whether you drive a 3 Series, 5 Series, X5, or M model, staying proactive with care is the best way to extend the life of your vehicle.
BMW is a name that’s become synonymous with performance, precision, and luxury. But long before the brand was building sporty sedans and powerful M models, its roots were tied to a completely different kind of machine—aircraft engines.
Car batteries are taken for granted—until something goes wrong. While it's rare, a car battery that overheats or catches fire is a serious risk. These types of failures don’t just kill the battery; they can damage your electrical system, start an engine fire, or put you in real danger.
As winter comes to an end and temperatures rise, many drivers in Raleigh, NC, encounter seasonal car troubles. The transition from cold weather to spring warmth can impact various vehicle components, making it an ideal time to address any lingering wear and tear from winter. Whether it's pothole damage, weak batteries, or air conditioning issues, taking care of these problems promptly helps ensure your car runs smoothly throughout the warmer months.
Nothing disrupts a drive quite like seeing the check engine light appear on your dashboard. It’s one of those warnings that can mean anything from a loose gas cap to a serious engine issue. Ignoring it isn’t an option, but panicking isn’t necessary either. Knowing what causes this light to come on and what steps to take can help you confidently handle the situation.
