Have you ever noticed a sweet, syrupy smell wafting from your car? It might be pleasant at first, but don’t be fooled – this could be a sign of a serious problem with your vehicle. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the causes of that sweet smell and what you should do about it.
Symptoms and causes
If you’re catching a whiff of something that reminds you of maple syrup or even celery, it’s likely that your car is leaking coolant or antifreeze. This sweet scent may be accompanied by other warning signs, such as:
- A sticky film on your windshield after using the defroster
- Puddles of fluid or rust on the radiator
- An unusually high-temperature gauge or overheating warning
- The coolant warning light illuminating on your dashboard
A coolant leak is a serious issue because if your car loses too much coolant, it can cause the engine to overheat, potentially leading to total engine failure. Trust me, you don’t want to deal with the headache and expense of replacing your entire engine!
What is involved in the repair
To fix a coolant leak, a qualified mechanic will need to thoroughly inspect your vehicle’s cooling system and engine. This typically involves:
- Plugging into the OBDII port to run a diagnostic scan and identify any error codes
- Examining the drive belts, timing belts, camshaft, crankshaft, spark plugs, and oil pan for issues
- Locating the source of the leak, which could be the radiator, heater core, or another component[5]
Once the problem is pinpointed, the mechanic will provide you with a quote for the necessary repairs and get your approval before proceeding. Depending on the severity and location of the leak, repairs could involve replacing hoses, the radiator, or other parts of the cooling system.
What is the rough cost of these repairs in New Zealand
The cost of repairing a coolant leak can vary depending on the make and model of your car and the extent of the damage. However, here are some rough estimates for common repairs related to coolant leaks in New Zealand:
- Radiator bottom hose replacement: $150-$300
- Heater core replacement: $500-$1,500
- Radiator replacement: $400-$1,200
Keep in mind that these are just ballpark figures, and the actual cost may be higher or lower based on your specific situation.
Why My Auto Shop is the best place to get your car fixed
If you’re dealing with a sweet smell or any other car troubles, My Auto Shop is here to help. We’re New Zealand’s #1 automotive repair booking site, with hundreds of MTA-approved garages nationwide. Our mobile mechanics in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch can even come directly to your home or workplace for added convenience.
When you book with My Auto Shop, you can trust that your car is in safe hands. All of our workshops are MTA-approved, and all work is covered by a 10,000km warranty. Plus, we provide transparent, upfront pricing and quotes for hundreds of services and repairs, so you can book with confidence.
Don’t let that sweet smell turn into a sour experience. If you suspect a coolant leak or any other issue with your car, head to myautoshop.co.nz to get a quote and book your repair today. We’ll have you back on the road in no time!