[HMALDO]

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.

 

[Jim Frye]

What year, model of Cruze?

http://www.cruzetalk.com/forum/25-s...e-cabin-odors-sources-resolution-summary.html

 

[obermd]

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.

 

[30 Ounce]

What exactly does "toxic" smell like?

 

[HMALDO]

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!

 

[30 Ounce]

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.

 

[HMALDO]

Good deal, I'll check it right away. I'll reply the results... fingers crossed!.

Thanks for the feedback!!

 

[obermd]

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.

 

[Yates]

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.

 

[HMALDO]

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

 

[obermd]

Your cap isn't holding pressure. In the thread I referenced there is information about the cap/tank seal.