Coolant smell under hood

Coolant smell under hood. ASEMASTER6371 MECHANIC; 52,797 POSTS; Good afternoon, Do you Mar 14, 2023 · If the coolant level in your radiator is low, it can cause the engine to overheat. My water pump has been replaced in the last 10,000 miles and the belt was replaced 5,000 miles ago. Indicators of an internal coolant leak include billowing white exhaust smoke accompanied by a sweet odor or a low coolant reservoir level. SO I dropped it by the dealership. In my Nov 1, 2023 · A Coolant Leak. The heater core is outlined above. which makes me beleive its not a big leak. Even if under the hood the smell would migrate into the cab collected by the air circulation system. The heater uses a “core” like a radiator to deliver heat inside the car. 1 Reply. If the leak is solely at the heater core I don't think you’d smell coolant under the hood. Heater Core Leak: If the antifreeze smell is more inside the car than outside, it means that the problem is with your car heater. Never enough to leave residue anywhere let alone get to the belly pan or ground. I notice this with mine and others that have just pulled into shopping malls. I checked the reservoir to make sure it wasnt cracked and its good i poured water less than 3 hours ago and it dried up . Nov 11, 2014 · I just recently started smelling that Antifreeze leaking smell. Jun 17, 2024 · Another symptom of a leak is the coolant smell; a sweet odor, often described as having a slightly metallic scent. I have heat and the defrost works and no smell when I run those. Your automobile smells Are you noticing a distinct sweet smell under the hood? These signs could indicate a coolant leak, a potentially serious issue that can lead to expensive engine damage. Gravity might pull the leaking coolant down onto the hot engine or let it drip onto the hot exhaust manifold. From what I know about it is the water pump seal doing it's designed job of passing a slight drop or so of coolant to lubricate the seal. 1. I think that it is the OAT antifreeze odor from the overflow coolant bottle. Leaks can also be caused by a bad thermostat housing, a worn intake manifold gasket, a bad heater core, a damaged radiator or cap, or a blown head gasket. Today I did not smell coolant and lifted the hood a few times to check. And if you notice a sweet, syrupy smell under the hood, this could be a sign of a coolant leak, and you should have it inspected immediately. I see some discoloration around the water pump an I noticed some wetness on the bottom of the resivor tank but other then that I see nothing on the ground. Coolant can often leak from the water pump, heater core, or coolant hoses. The Burning Smell of Rubber from the Car: There are many reasons behind the burning smell, and each smell indicates a different problem. Method 2: Check the “Check Engine” light; if it suddenly illuminates, it indicates that the engine has a problem; at this point, the cooling water should be checked first. The same coolant that flows through the engine also flows through the heater core, but only when you turn the heater on. Mar 20, 2017 · I have also noticed the same smell from my JEEP, exactly as you describe it. there is no sign of leakage on the ground under the truck. The coolant in the overflow tank is dirty looking but does not appear oily. Though a coolant leak can annoyingly run along a hose, pipe, or Feb 27, 2023 · Coolant leaks can be caused by a lot of different things like cracked coolant hoses or bad gaskets. The coolant leak is usually traceable to a blown head gasket, cracks in coolant hoses, etc. But more so under the hood after I get to destination, and stop. Aug 3, 2020 · Burning smell under hood, coolant and oil levels normal. This can cause the coolant to leak out and smoke, as well as smell like antifreeze burning. If you can see a coolant leak, you can check out this article about coolant leaks to learn more. I do occasionally see drip spots on the ground but I can't tell if they're oil, coolant or some other fluid. Oil on the dipstick appears normal. If you smell coolant or burning oil from under your hood, Aug 17, 2021 · Got a 05 LLY with 180K and Iam losing a little antifreeze and I can smell it under the hood. While these are some of the most common scenarios, we’ll also discuss some other possibilities to get you prepared for this situation. Push it a bit, coolant smell. When I remove the radiator cap, there is pressure. A cracked one will leak coolant. Sep 29, 2023 · There is a sweet smell coming from under the hood of my truck, I can't see anything physically leaking. Jul 1, 2015 · Engine Smell Diagnostic An unfamiliar smell means an unfamiliar problem. They could not tell coolant from diesel:cookoo[1]: The antifreeze smell in your jeep wrangler is likely due to coolant leaking from the radiator cap, a loose hose, or a faulty gasket. — Nat. Feb 4, 2024 · When interpreting coolant symbols under the hood, it is crucial to understand the coolant indicator lights and how to interpret coolant level symbols. An internal coolant leak can also contaminate the engine oil giving it a frothy, milky appearance. Oct 17, 2006 · I've been noticing a smell of hot coolant coming from somewhere under the hood of my 96 Sunfire 2. What does smoke from under the hood mean? If you experience smoke coming from under the hood Mar 11, 2014 · I have noticed that the 2013 and 2014 both after being turned off when hot, have a antifreeze type of smell in the front of the radiator. I still couldn'tsee a leak for a while, then finally noticed it bubbling where the plastic connects to the aluminum at the top. A quick inspection of the coolant system should tell you if this is the case. Mar 1, 2022 · Recently, I noticed the coolant smell at the front of the truck when hot as well. I've read possible cases could be heater core, water pump, head gasket, crack in the coolant hose etc. Nov 30, 2013 · I was smelling coolant for like 2 weeks and couldn't find a leak until one day I opened the hood and coolant was splashed all over the place and belts started to squeek. Dec 26, 2017 · It sounds like there is a potential leak under the hood since the OP smells coolant under there. The last time I took it in saying I had a leak they said I had a coolant leak on the oil filter head and replaced it. It is not from a regen because I track them and the smell is quite different. White smoke from the engine bay can also be caused by an overheating engine, where the coolant is being pushed out of the coolant system. The heater core is essentially just a small radiator that sits inside the dashboard. Let it get up to temp, grabbed the throttle cable (WRX) and revved it a few times to put some load on the system. Is there a recall on this? If not, mine is not under warranty, so I will need to fix it myself. Our professionals are here to help make sure you find the answers you need to your questions and our community is here to help other brainstorm Nov 26, 2019 · Look under your Ram’s hood with the engine off (avoid the electric fan even with the key off). If there are no clear signs of coolant leaks, inspect the entire engine compartment. Sep 29, 2015 · Not an aftermarket cap?) and check the coolant reservoir for signs of leaks. ahh just venting i really dont need to replace anything right now im outta work and i have a 2yr old who seems to grow bigger every time he falls Mar 9, 2023 · Some of the most common reasons to see coolant under the car are a leaking radiator hose, a bad water pump or a loose radiator hose clamp. Leaking Heater Core. Burning coolant produces a bad smell — similar to burnt rubber. I probably have to add a half bottle of water every month. The temp gauge should Dec 13, 2015 · However, occasionally I smell coolant after I turn off my car. Sep 22, 2019 · Check under your car's hood to make sure you have no leak. Purebred Dog Day (@NPurebredDogDay) January 5, 2018 Because of the sweet smell of coolant, animals and children may be attracted to it . I can kind of smell it in the cabin, when I stop @ a light,etc. Now I have finally noticed a bit of a loss in coolant so back under the hood. This article applies to the 2nd and 3rd generation Dodge Ram 1500 (1994-2008). I got the truck back and still had a leak, it was an injector line spraying fuel under the hood. Anyway, is this an indication of an internal leak; the smell is not always present, or at least I got used to it. The radiator cap acts as a relief valve and allows the volume of fluid to decrease by opening slightly and allowing passage to the reservoir tank. Smell Type: Burnt Oil, Sweet (Antifreeze). Jun 6, 2006 · I bought the recommended Dexcool antifreeze and brought back to level. Coolant came spewing out of a hairline crack in the radiator. It does have the red coolant in it, here's the list of stuff I looked at trying to figure this out: Starts and warms up fine (stays just under 210), heater works fine too. Every Audi we have owned you can smell coolant near the front of the car when parked warm in the garage. Leaked Coolant Reservoir Another possibility is that your vehicle’s coolant reservoir is leaking. Oct 22, 2014 · These can crack and cause your F-150 or F-250's engine compartment to smell "plasticky. Aug 30, 2018 · I noticed the antifreeze smell on my 2018 WK2 Trailhawk, I also notice that the fill level was a touch low. Similar to leaking engine oil, the coolant can land on hot engine components or hot exhaust parts and start to burn. is there a TSB out on this regaurding the water pump? Dec 26, 2013 · Coolant has a distinctive odor. Coolant leaks in general will smell sweet and sharp, more than they smell like burning. Could be a small coolant leak with the engine heat evaporating the coolant making it unnoticeable. 6L . It could be coming from a radiator or heater hose, a failed intake manifold gasket or cylinder Mar 25, 2022 · What Does a Coolant Leak Smell Like? Leaking coolant, also known as antifreeze, can smell sweet like maple syrup or burnt marshmallows. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you recognize the signs of a coolant leak, locate the source, and provide solutions to fix the issue and prevent future leaks. Have done the hose test and been all over and under the engine looking for a leakany ideas ?? 2005 BLACK,CC,SB I then had to drive a few miles down the road and noticed a sweet smell (like coolant) when I got to my destination. I have done a little research today as to what could be the culprit. Today, I actually opened my hood sniffed my engine like a bloodhound and the strongest coolant smell kind of came from the tubes leading into the red circled item. or when you open the hood. If the coolant is leaking and it hits hot components under the hood or throughout the exhaust, it could create a unique burning smell that resembles rubber. This smell typically comes from the heater core, which can accumulate fluid in the plastic housing at the bottom when there’s a leak. Taking a look at it when the engine bay is emitting smoke can only help you know exactly the coolant smell in car source. Last night while talking to my friend, I turned on the truck and the smell came so quick and strong that he started to check his car thinking it has a coolant leak. Just like the exhaust smell in the cab when I remote start it in the cold mornings that the dealer couldn't diagnose, I doubt they will find this as there is no Jun 20, 2016 · I SMELLED ANTIFREEZE SO I CHECKED UNDER THE HOOD AND SEEN DRIED ANTIFREEZE SPLATTERED ALL OVER MY ENGINE COVER and radiator fans . The smell came from the driver side of the engine. White Smoke Under Hood from Coolant Leak -Why? White smoke from engine coolant leak is simply a sign that the leaking coolant has come in contact with hot engine components. These indicators provide essential information about the status of the vehicle’s cooling system and should be monitored carefully to ensure optimal engine performance and prevent overheating. I only smell it when I get out of my truck. Apr 12, 2008 · I have an 08 GT CX-9 with 2,200 miles on it. I haven't had any oily film on the window. Oct 5, 2020 · I have a 2000 Silverado Z71 1500 with the 5. if under the hood it should be less noticeable, maybe nonexistent if you close off the fresh air intake on the HVAC. I too have a 2014 GC Limited 3. If the coolant becomes dirty or discolored, it’s time to flush and refill the system. Normal driving around, no smell. Jan 4, 2007 · Coolant Smell from under hood Jump to Latest 3K views 13 replies 6 participants last post by ssweet97 Jan 11, 2007 Oct 21, 2011 · Bimmerforums is the preferred online BMW Forum and community for BMW owners. i will def check for wet spots like u said, is it common for a radiator to crap out that quick?? i only use honda antifreeze not some crap off a no name gas station shelf. They pressure tested the coolant system and found a pinhole lean on my radiator and are replacing it, Dec 25, 2019 · Can't really tell, although I do not believe it is coolant or oil. It seems strongest around the firewall, on the left bank. Hot coolant with antifreeze in it has a specific smell like butterscotch or graham Jan 23, 2004 · Today while the car was cool I checked to coolant level in the tank and could see coolant. Has the level in the overflow tank changed since coolant was replenished? Jul 9, 2018 · It never leaves a puddle on the ground or in the engine compartment anywhere. If a leak is detected, repair or replace any worn components and top up the coolant. What happens if you spill coolant under the hood? Well, besides engine overheating, it could cause electrical issues, or pose a fire hazard! for cars enthusiast. I also have the coolant smell, have taken dozens of pictures but can't find where the coolant is leaking but I do have to add about a cup of coolant every 2 Mar 1, 2006 · THE CULPRIT: Coolant containing sweet-smelling (but toxic) ethylene glycol is leaking from somewhere. There's no white residue indicative of a coolant leak. NO VISIBLE LEAKING! I suspected heater core, but, no evidence of leakage inside that I can find. Though I've noticed my temp gauge dropa notch or two when I run the defrost. If that makes sense. After reading a few threads, the prevailing opinion is that the valley pan gasket is bad. If you smell burning rubber while driving, it’s best to pull over and take a Jun 8, 2022 · Leaking coolant can also lead to a strange smell coming from your engine compartment. What Does Coolant Smell Like? Coolant has a sweet, warm smell and is easily recognizable. you can only smell it when the windows are open. It has very little coolant loss, and no coolant in oil. The sweet smell varies depending on the type of coolant used in your car since the manufacturers ingest other chemicals when producing them. Any other thoughts about the cause? If you see a car smoking under hood and burning smell from the engine compartment, it’s an indication of an oil leak somewhere in the engine. Like you, I have not seen any evidence of a coolant leak under the hood. Oct 17, 2013 · chechem84, do you smell the coolant in the cabin, under the hood, or both? 2018 Honda Clarity Touring PHEV - Forest Green w/Tan interior (wife's car) 2017 Volt LT - Heather Gray; black bow ties, Charcoal VoltShelf. I gave up after I noticed my coolant wasn't really going anywhere, the level stayed constant. May 19, 2020 · Pretty much normal. 2 I don't see any obvious signs of a coolant leak, nor does the coolant level seem to be dropping by any amount. Dec 10, 2020 · Most likely normal operation of the coolant reservoir which is vented to atmosphere. Just had my oil changed about a month ago and no leaks were noticed by my mechanic. Mar 9, 2023 · Does burning coolant smell like rubber? Coolant has a sweet smell that makes it unique from other car fluids. Feb 16, 2017 · What is the best way to find a coolant leak I may or may not have? My truck randomly smells like coolant in front and under the hood, but my coolant level has not changed. But if the smell is like burning rubber, especially under the hood, it is not a good sign. It’s also important to keep an eye on the coolant level and appearance. Aug 4, 2008 · What I have: With the hood up after the engine has been running, I can smell coolant. 3. At Bimmerforums, you will find technical how-to information maintenance specifics audio advice wheel and tire combinations and model specific details not found anywhere else. I have a slight coolant smell in the cab. Back in the day you used to just throw some pepper or a copper type of sealant in the radiator and you were good to go (been there done that in the '80's). Dec 25, 2011 · yeah mine is original why would i change it on a 07 with under 60k on it. Monday, August 3rd, 2020 AT 10:14 AM. It's also a good time to literally sniff around to see Jan 28, 2024 · If you’re experiencing a strong smell of antifreeze in your car but can’t find any signs of leaks, here are a few solutions you can follow to address the issue: Solution #1 – Fix Or Bypass Heater Core Jun 4, 2022 · Method 1: Examine the coolant temperature gauge table; the coolant may be below if the needle points to the H section. My coolant tank was replaced about two or three months ago. Figure 3. Popped the hood to look for leaks, no leaks. Oct 13, 2010 · I'm noticing an antifreeze smell from under the hood & I can't seem to find any visable leaks. I recently starting noticing engine coolant odor coming from under the hood when the car is running at normal operating temp according to the Temp Gauge (at normal ops temp it reads slightly to the bottom half of the halfway hash mark). I have not noticed any fluid on the ground nor any obvious leaks under the hood. I still want to know what prompted the OP to replenish the coolant. Same with your tailpipe- sniff it for signs of coolant burning smell. " That's the smell of warm coolant being blown into your ventilation system. Apr 17, 2012 · The strangest thing is that the antifreeze level is always the same. May 19, 2009 · I have a 99 Disco with a burning coolant smell under the hood. Could smell it inside the car and outside of it. May 25, 2019 · If a small puddle or stain of coolant forms under the car near the front of the vehicle lift the hood and start looking in the engine bay. I found it!! Mar 19, 2014 · Thats ok, I don't deal with the dealers anymore. When the engine is cold, the coolant level is just under the full line. If you notice your car smoking from under the hood, or smelling like antifreeze burning, be sure to check your coolant level and look for leaks. Also random question for Below are some of the common causes of coolant smell coming from your car’s AC. . Oct 7, 2023 · 1. If you smell a sweet smell coming from your car, these steps describe how to find a coolant leak. Not sure if it is electrical or not Not getting any warnings, says all systems OK. When hot it's just above. It's not overpowering nasty, but you can tell what it is. As the temp increases insides the closed coolant system (radiator et al) the pressure also will increase. Why does my car’s AC smell like coolant? The most common causes of the smell of coolant coming out of your AC are: Your coolant is leaking; You have a cracked coolant reservoir; A valve leak; Loose connectors; A heater core leak; A radiator leak; A head gasket leak Sep 27, 2010 · I had this exact problem. A sweet smell will usually accompany the smoke in most cases. It can happen inside or outside the car and might mean there’s a coolant leak. This leak may have come from anywhere under the hood. Apr 15, 2022 · There are many reasons behind producing a burning smell and antifreeze smell in the jeep wrangler. Engine coolants have sweet smells because of the ethylene glycol or propylene glycol used in formulating them. Also, check your coolant for sign of an oil sheen or emulsification and check your dipstick and make sure the oil doesn't smell like gasoline and isn't emulsified looking like tan mayonnaise. A sweet smell from a minor coolant leak from a hole in a radiator hose a failed gasket, or a stuck-open thermostat often gives off a little steam as well. Oct 14, 2022 · Your car is smoking under the hood due to the vehicle burning engine oil, leaking gasket seals, or coolant leaks. Because my coolant in never low, always between the Apr 24, 2023 · If you smell burning rubber and it's coming from under your hood, chances are you'll see a wisp of smoke. Even small amounts of coolant entering the combustion chamber will produce white exhaust smoke. Jul 13, 2023 · Although this is one of the rarest occurrences of leakage, the likelihood of it occurring is not nil. It is a coolant smell. I've been noticing the smell off and on for months but every time I smell it, it goes away just as fast as it came. Electrical wiring issues Hot or burning electrical wires are another common cause of white smoke from under hood. After driving a short distance, there is an antifreeze smell coming from under the hood. bcjdn nnenz ypska ncjh fqiu vpls kywq gxtzt teyku fljvrgz