Strange smells in cars are one of the problems that make you more anxious if the car that has a strange smell is included in the new car category. This smell can actually be a sign that there is a problem with a certain part of the car.
This time otomodify will discuss the meaning of the various strange smells that arise in new cars along with solutions or how to deal with strange smells in the car.
Burning plastic smell or cable smell
If there is a smell of burning or melting cables when the engine is just turned on or when the car has traveled a certain distance, usually there is damage to the electrical cables. In addition, in some cases, there are small plastic objects such as plastic bags that are stuck near the bottom of the car and melt.
Solution:
- Turn off the engine immediately
- Check the engine room and under the car
- Take it to the repair shop immediately if the smell continues
Pungent oil smell
The sharp smell of engine oil is a sign that there is an oil leak that drips onto the hot part of the engine. In addition to the pungent oil smell, oil leaks can also be indicated by thin smoke coming out of the hood. This leak can occur because the oil cap is not tightly closed or because of a small crack in the engine.
Solution:
- Check the oil cap. And if it is loose, close it tightly immediately
- Make sure there is no oil dripping on the engine surface and garage floor
- The last solution if the smell does not go away, take it to a repair shop
Gasoline smell
A pungent and thorough smell of gasoline entering the cabin is usually a sign of a leak in the combustion system, a loose tank cap or a cracked fuel hose. In addition, it could also be because the tank is leaking or there is residual gasoline on the outside body after refueling.
Solution:
- Avoid filling the fuel tank too full
- Check if the tank cap is tight
- Take it to a repair shop for a fuel system check
Musty or damp smell
A musty smell in a car is usually caused by the AC. This smell is a sign that the AC in the car is damaged or dirty.
Solution:
- Replace the cabin filter regularly
- Use an AC cleaner in the form of a spray
- Have the AC serviced at a repair shop if the smell does not go away.
Metallic or rusty smell
This smell is usually marked by a strange smell typical of burnt iron. This usually appears after driving for quite a long time. The most common cause of metallic odor is friction between metals due to worn brake pads, uneven brake discs or damaged wheel bearings.
Solution:
- Check the condition if there is a squeaking sound when braking
- If so, go to the repair shop immediately and make repairs
- Do not delay repairs, because this concerns safety
Sweet smell like gum
An unusual or nauseating sweet smell fills your car? This could be a sign that your car has a leak in the radiator, hose or coolant water pump.
Solution:
- Check the radiator and reservoir tank
- Look for green drips or spots on the floor of the car
- Take it to a mechanic immediately before it overheats
Smoke or cigarette smoke smell
If you smell smoke from inside the cabin even though no one is smoking, this smell could be from a leaking exhaust, a loose cabin seal or from a ventilation system that sucks air from outside.
Solution:
- Check the condition of the exhaust pipe
- Check the door rubber and air vents
- Avoid turning on the AC when passing through a smoky area
Smell of paint or glue
This smell is normal in new cars. This is because interior materials such as the dashboard, synthetic seats and carpets are still in the process of releasing gas from chemicals.
Solution:
- Park the car in a shady place
- Use activated charcoal, baking soda, or coffee grounds as an odor absorber
- Let the air circulation open for a few hours every day.
Conclusion
Unpleasant odors or strange odors in the car cannot be underestimated. Sometimes odor is a sign of damage or potential danger.
Don't hesitate to check it yourself. If the smell doesn't go away, go to a trusted repair shop immediately. Don't forget to keep your car clean and take care of it properly.