Why does my car smell like burnt radiator fluid?

First, a simple leak could be causing the issue. Sometimes, a pipe or hose running to or from your radiator might spring a leak. If the heater core of your vehicle is leaking antifreeze, that can cause a fairly intense smell inside your car. Replacing a broken pipe or hose is often quite simple and fairly inexpensive.

Why does the inside of my car smell like transmission fluid?

#3 Burning Smell Fresh transmission fluid tends to smell sweet or tart. When that smell turns burnt, your transmission fluid has broken down and the system is burning too hot, leading to an increase in friction and corrosive activity in the engine.

Is it normal to smell transmission fluid after changing it?

While you can always check for a leak, transmission fluid has a unique odor that you can also identify it by. This fluid has a slightly sweet or tart odor and often attracts animals. If you start to notice a burning odor, this is the time to schedule (quickly) your next fluid change.

Should I change burnt transmission fluid?

If it’s dark or has a burnt smell, you’ll likely need the fluid changed, and you should also have your transmission inspected for potential problems. The burnt fluid typically means the transmission has overheated, and this requires the attention of a professional mechanic.

Should you change burnt transmission fluid?

First, check the fluid. Automatic transmission fluid is typically bright red and smells slightly sweet if everything is running smoothly. If it’s dark or has a burnt smell, you’ll likely need the fluid changed, and you should also have your transmission inspected for potential problems.

Is the lower radiator on a CTSS leaking?

Addition: In addition to VDC Driver’s good suggestion that hoses / clamps are possibly suspect, I see that certain 04-05 CTSs have faulty radiators that often appear to have leakage near the lower hose. However, a very small leak when the car is hot may not result in drips or puddles. A revised radiator is available through GM.

Can a small coolant leak cause a puddle?

However, a very small leak when the car is hot may not result in drips or puddles. A revised radiator is available through GM. When I get the Model-Year I can dig deeper into defects. I had similar experiences on a few of my cars. 88 Chevrolet Beretta – There was a small coolant bypass hose under the manifold.

How can I find out if my CTS has a leak?

Couldn’t find the leak until the top of the fan shroud was removed. Has the dealer done a dye test to pinpoint the source of the leak. The dealer should be able to diagnose an intake or head gasket leak. Perhaps a second opinion is in order, especially if the CTS is still under warranty.