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Toxic smell ?

3893 Views 10 Replies 5 Participants Last post by  obermd
Hello everyone. This is probably a previously discussed topic here, but can anybody tell me what could possibly be the cause of a very bad toxic smell coming out of the left driver's a/c vent ?. Sometimes when I am driving and come to a stop, that awful smell appears. I think it is burnt coolant smell, but everything around the engine and coolant reservoir looks fine. I even took it to a local Chevrolet dealer for service and they replaced the water pump, and the smell comes in from time to time. Any feedback will be greatly appreciated.
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Does this occur when the engine is hot or cold? Also, does it smell like dirty socks? Take a look at http://www.cruzetalk.com/forum/25-s...e-cabin-odors-sources-resolution-summary.html for more information.
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What exactly does "toxic" smell like?
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The smell happens when car is running / engine hot. It is a 2014 LTZ. I say toxic because it really smells as if something leaks, specifically when I stop or start running the car after stopping at a red light or such. Happens veery seldom. It does not smell like oil burning when dripping on the hot engine block, but more like coolant burning. One day when I stopped at a red light and it started to smell, I noticed a bit of smoke coming out of the hood, driver's side, exactly where the fuse box is located. When I parked the car I opened the hood to check out the area and everything looked fine.
I really appreciate the responses!. God bless!
Check that your cap for the coolant reservoir is tight. That cap has caused a lot of smell issues...if you don't see anything obvious take it to the dealer. It should be under warranty unless your mileage is high.
Good deal, I'll check it right away. I'll reply the results... fingers crossed!.

Thanks for the feedback!!
The 2014s don't have the issue with the HVAC grease, which eliminates one source of odor. Engine being hot reduces, but doesn't eliminate the possibility that you're smelling mold/mildew.
Does this occur when the engine is hot or cold? Also, does it smell like dirty socks? Take a look at http://www.cruzetalk.com/forum/25-s...e-cabin-odors-sources-resolution-summary.html for more information.
Yea, that old dirty socks/burning wires smell...good times.
I really appreciate all the responses. I'll try replacing the cap first, as I was able to notice a bit of residue buildup on one side of the cap around the O ring
Your cap isn't holding pressure. In the thread I referenced there is information about the cap/tank seal.
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