If you start to notice an unfamiliar or unpleasant smell while driving, there may be something wrong with your vehicle. Learn more about a few different scents you may encounter and what could be causing them so you can address them promptly to avoid more complicated auto repairs.

What’s Causing That Smell?

1. Musty

If your car smells musty, you likely have mold growing in the air conditioning system. When you run the AC, moisture collects on the evaporator. If the system doesn’t dry out, it can lead to mold. Run your fan at high speed without the AC to dry the evaporator and help clear the smell.

2. Sweet

Antifreeze and coolant both have sweet smells, like maple syrup, so if you smell this, you may have a leak from either the radiator or cooling system. Either way, it’s important to address the leak with prompt auto repair, as these chemicals can damage your lungs by irritating the mucus membranes and upper respiratory tract.

3. Burnt Oil

If you smell burning oil, it could be from a few sources. Your car may be running low on oil, so as soon as you can, park the car and check the dipstick. Your vehicle may also be overheating or leaking oil. Lastly, this smell can come from overheated brake pads or motors. If you use the brakes aggressively or leave the emergency brake on while driving, you can cause this issue.

If your car is emitting an odd odor, head to Dee’s Auto Care Specialists in the Coulee Region. They’ve been around since 1936, meaning they have the knowledge and experience to get your car back on the road as soon as possible. They provide comprehensive auto repair services, including tires, timing belts, alignments, transmission services, and oil changes. Learn more about their services on their website, or call one of their locations to schedule an appointment. You can reach La Crosse, WI, at (608) 782-2530, Onalaska at (608) 783-0500, and Winona, MN, at (507) 452-1115.