A strange smell coming from your car can be puzzling, especially if it smells like antifreeze. However, it doesn’t always mean that your car is overheating.
So, what are the reasons the car smells like antifreeze but not overheating? It can be due to various reasons like a leak in the radiator, thermostat, head gasket, problem with the heater core, etc. Water hose and transmission fluid leaking, EGR valve leaks, etc., are also on the list.
In this article, we’ll examine why a car might smell like antifreeze even though the temperature gauge is fine. We will also discuss where the smell is coming from and the necessary steps to fix it.
Table: Car Smells Like Antifreeze But Not Overheating
A car can smell like antifreeze for various reasons. The table below shows the possible reasons why a car smells like antifreeze but not overheating.
| No. | Reasons | Description |
| 1 | Radiator leak | Damage in the radiator due to rust or collision |
| 2 | Heater core problem | Damage in the heater core while driving or other ways |
| 3 | Worn-out radiator cap | The radiator cap is loose or damaged due to corrosion |
| 4 | Leak in the thermostat | Damage with the thermostat due to rust or any built-in problems |
| 5 | Leak in the water hose | Damage or tearing of water hose due to temperature or other ways |
| 6 | Leak in transmission fluid | Damage due to high mileage |
| 7 | Leak in the head gasket | Rust, aging, or overheating |
| 8 | EGR valve leaks | Due to clogging, debris, and or aging |
Why My Car Smells Like Antifreeze But Not Overheating? Causes and Fixes
So you see, there are many reasons behind a car smells like antifreeze. Let’s take a deeper dive into them along with their possible solutions!
1. Leak in the radiator
Leaks in the radiator can drain the coolant. It is important to treat this issue as quickly as possible. If it is left unchecked, a leak can cause overheating and significant engine damage.
Solution
To stop further harm to the engine, you should take immediate action if you think there may be a radiator leak. There are a few things you can attempt if you don’t have access to a mechanic.
You need to find any cracks in the radiator to find where the leak is occurring. A radiator sealant can be used to cover up the leaking area.
2. Heater core problem
Another reason could be that the heater core is clogged. The heater core is in charge of warming the air that circulates through the heating and ventilation system of the car. It may prevent coolants from flowing through it effectively, which could lead to pressure buildup and a strong antifreeze smell.
Solution
If the heater core is only partially clogged, a flush of the coolant system can clear the blockage. If the heater core is damaged, it should be replaced.
3. Leak in the Head Gasket
Coolant can flow into the combustion chamber if the head gasket is leaking. This can make the car smell like antifreeze.
Solution
Depending on the damage to the head gasket, it can be repaired or replaced. However, it is best to maintain it thoroughly before any damage occurs as the replacement can cost you anywhere from $1000 to $2000!
4. Worn-out radiator cap
A major reason your car smells like antifreeze, even though it is not overheating, can be a worn-out radiator cap.
If the radiator cap is worn out, it can cause the coolant to leak out. Moreover, a worn-out radiator cap can cause the hose to wear out too. This can result in a sweet smell inside the vehicle.
Solution
The solution to this problem is to repair it or replace the radiator cap with a new one.
5. Water Pump Leak
Another cause is a leak in the water pump. The water pump keeps the car’s temperature stable. If the water pump is leaking coolants, it can smell like antifreeze.
Solution
The solution is to have the water pump replaced by a professional mechanic. They will replace the water pump if the coolant level is low and there is no obvious sign of a leak. If this is the case, the water pump may be the cause of the issue.
However, the replacement of water pumps can cost you anywhere between $400 to $800, so do be sincere about the investment!
6. Leak in the thermostat
A faulty thermostat can disrupt the flow of coolant into the engine, leading to coolant leaks that cause an antifreeze smell.
Solution
To fix a leak in the thermostat, check for cracks or leaks in the thermostat housing and replace the thermostat if necessary. Make sure to use the correct thermostat for your car’s make and model.
7. Leak in the water jacket
A leak in the water jacket can allow coolant to leak into the combustion chamber, resulting in an antifreeze smell.
Solution
Cover up the leak with a sealant and hire a mechanic if necessary.
8. Leaks in the hose
Over time, the hoses that carry coolant throughout the engine can develop leaks, causing coolant to leak out and emit an antifreeze smell. This common issue can be caused by high temperatures and other ways it gets worn out.
Solution
The first step is to find where the leak is located. Look for any cracks, holes, or signs of wear and tear. If the leak is found, the next step is to repair or replace the damaged hose.
If the damage is repairable such as a small crack or hole, it may be possible to patch it with a sealant. Nonetheless, the replacement should cost you about $400, so be mindful.
9. EGR valve leak
A leaking EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve can make a car smell like antifreeze. To cut down on pollution, the EGR valve sends a small amount of exhaust gas back into the intake system.
If the valve isn’t working right, it can let coolant into the exhaust system, which gives off a sweet smell like antifreeze. Thus, if the EGR valve is leaking, the check engine light may also come on.
Solution
If an EGR valve leaks, the valve itself needs to be changed. In some cases, the valve may just need to be repaired. But it will need to be replaced if it is damaged or worn, and will cost anywhere between $350 to $450.
It is also important to have the coolant system and the vacuum hoses that control the EGR valve checked for leaks and contaminants.
10. Leak in the transmission fluid
A leak can cause a smell similar to antifreeze in a car, even if the car is not overheating.
Moreover, the transmission fluid is responsible for cooling the transmission. When there is a leak in the transmission fluid, the transmission may not function properly.
Solution
If a leak is found, you will need to determine the source of the leak. This could be a damaged transmission pan gasket or a problem with one of the seals in the transmission.
However, if the leak is not addressed, it can lead to costly transmission repairs or even a complete transmission replacement. It is important to address a transmission fluid leak as soon as it is detected to avoid further damage and costly repairs.
Check this video out if you’d like to know further about how to fix this issue!
Frequently Asked Question
Still puzzled? In this section, we will answer the most asked questions about antifreeze smell.
Yes, a clogged catalytic converter can cause exhaust to back up into the engine, resulting in a strong antifreeze smell.
Yes, it can be dangerous to drive a car that smells like antifreeze. Leaks of any sort can lead to engine failure, which can cause an accident.
Conclusion
If you’re still wondering why my car smells like antifreeze but not overheating, in particular, it is likely caused by several reasons mentioned above.
While the problems sound simple in many cases, they can be devastating. Thus, if you’re experiencing such issues, don’t waste time and take your car to a professional. This will make sure to prevent any potential problems the vehicle might have.