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Your Nose Knows: When Your Car Smells Like That, Do This

UPFRONT/GO

What’s that Odor?

When your car smells like that, do this

Illustration of eyes in a review mirror, different car fresheners are hanging from mirror

Rotten eggs
Get the catalytic converter checked.

Burning oil
Check for low oil or leaks.

Maple syrup
Check the coolant level.

Moldy odor
Get air-conditioning checked.

Burning plastic
Stop immediately. Get the car towed to a mechanic for an electrical check. —Jodi Helmer

Sources: Jake Horvat, director at GM Parts Direct; Duane “Doc” Watson, technical trainer at Bosch Mobility Aftermarket; Kyle Parman, president of corporate store operations at RNR Tire Express

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