Motorists have been warned that a sugary smell in their vehicle could be a sign of serious damage and could result in a repair bill of more than £1,000
Motorists have been put on high alert as petrol and diesel vehicles may be showing signs of costly trouble. A sweet, sugar-like smell when starting the motor could signal a coolant or antifreeze leak, potentially racking up over £1,000 in repairs. Drivers might mistake this delicate aroma for a stray air freshener or a dropped fizzy drink, but it’s often the car crying out due to a serious issue.
Road users should be wary of the costly repercussions of ignoring such signals as warns Pete Ridley, an automotive expert at Car Finance Saver. He emphasises the importance of prompt action to avoid escalating component damage that could hit wallets hard.
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He warned: “People are quick to notice when something feels or sounds off, but the smell of coolant is one of the most overlooked early warnings.
“And that delay in action can lead to overheating, damaged components, and engine failure, with repairs easily exceeding £1,000.”
Vehicle coolant plays a critical role in keeping engine temperatures steady, and even a tiny leakage can let out a potent, sweet smell, particularly after a spin. The scent is notably strong when the car is hot or when heating is cranked up in the car, reports the Express.
Motorists are being urged to keep an eye out for a sweet smell in their cars, as it could be a tell-tale sign of a coolant leak that might lead to costly repairs.
Pete warned: “Drivers will top up the coolant and think that’s the fix. But if you’re topping it up regularly, that’s a red flag. It’s not evaporating, it’s leaking, and your car’s trying to tell you. If that sweet smell hits every time the fans do, it’s time to get it checked.”
He also highlighted other key indicators of trouble under the bonnet, such as misted-up windows, overheating engines, and the constant need to refill coolant.
Pete advised: “Look for sticky residue around the coolant tank, damp areas near hoses, or a significant drop in coolant levels over time.”
Mr Ridley then added: “Spotting a leak early could mean a £30 repair instead of a four-figure bill,” adding, “So it’s always worth a quick check just to be safe.”
