Drivers warned one odour in your vehicle could signal 'potentially deadly' issue
Motorists are being urged to take action if they notice a certain smell in their vehicle, as it could be a sign of a potentially fatal issue that you won't want to ignore
Countless motorists across Britain get behind the wheel every day, completely oblivious to the fact their vehicle might be quietly threatening their safety. While most drivers monitor dashboard warning lights, one critical danger signal often goes unnoticed: an unusual odour that could signal a potentially deadly carbon monoxide leak.
Kazimieras Urbonas, Supplier Excellence Manager at Ovoko, one of Europe's biggest online marketplaces for used car parts, is calling on drivers to act immediately if they detect strange smells in their vehicle. "It's common for drivers to just dismiss odd smells as minor annoyances, but certain odours are your car's way of screaming for help," warns Urbonas.
"What starts as an unpleasant smell could quickly become a life-threatening situation if left unchecked."
Below, motoring expert Urbonas highlights the smell demanding urgent attention and explains what drivers need to do to protect themselves.
The smell that requires immediate action
A rotten egg or sulphur-like odour coming from your car is a serious warning sign that something has gone badly wrong under the bonnet. This unmistakable smell typically indicates a malfunctioning catalytic converter or a problem with your fuel system.
"The catalytic converter plays a central role in reducing harmful emissions," explains Urbonas. "When it starts to fail, hydrogen sulphide gas, which smells like rotten eggs, can escape instead of being converted into odourless sulphur dioxide. This is both an emissions problem and a sign that your exhaust system is compromised."
Even more concerning is detecting exhaust fumes within the passenger cabin. This could indicate a leak in your exhaust system, permitting hazardous gases to seep into the car where you're sitting.
Amongst these gases is carbon monoxide, a silent yet deadly threat.
Whilst some people take to social media seeking guidance from fellow motorists about such concerns, it's essential to obtain proper advice on this dangerous issue.
The danger of carbon monoxide
Carbon monoxide is colourless, odourless, and fatal. Unlike the rotten egg odour that indicates trouble, carbon monoxide gives no warning.
It quietly builds up in enclosed areas, with your car interior being the ideal setting.
"People don't realise how quickly carbon monoxide poisoning can occur in a vehicle," warns Urbonas. "Even a small leak can create dangerous concentrations within minutes, especially when the windows are closed and the heating is on."
Short exposure to carbon monoxide in a confined car interior can prompt various symptoms. Headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and severe fatigue are typical warning signs.
In the most severe instances, prolonged exposure can lead to unconsciousness or death. Those most vulnerable include young children, elderly individuals, and people with pre-existing cardiac conditions.
The danger intensifies throughout winter when drivers typically keep windows shut and heating systems on. Heavy traffic presents a particularly acute risk, as fumes from surrounding vehicles can worsen the problem if your car has developed a leak.
What motorists must do right away
If you detect a rotten egg smell or notice exhaust fumes seeping into your car, swift action could save lives.
"The moment you smell something suspicious, don't try to tough it out or convince yourself it's nothing," warns Urbonas. "Pull over safely as soon as possible, open all the windows, and turn off the engine."
First, ensure complete ventilation by opening every door and window. Getting fresh air circulating should be your immediate priority.
Never continue driving if you're experiencing symptoms like dizziness or nausea, as these may indicate carbon monoxide exposure, and your capacity to make sound judgements could already be impaired.
Get yourself and all passengers out of the vehicle and into fresh air immediately. If anyone shows severe symptoms including confusion, respiratory problems, or loss of consciousness, call 999 straightaway.
Carbon monoxide poisoning requires urgent medical attention. "Don't restart the engine or attempt to drive the vehicle to a garage yourself," Urbonas cautions.
"You need a professional inspection before that car is safe to drive again. Arrange for it to be towed to a qualified mechanic who can properly diagnose and repair the issue."
An experienced mechanic will examine your exhaust system for leaks, check the catalytic converter, and inspect all seals and connections.
They'll also evaluate your fuel system if a rotten egg odour was present. These aren't repairs you should delay.
The danger to your wellbeing and the possibility of costly engine damage both grow the longer you postpone action.
"We see countless cases where drivers ignored early warning signs, only to face repair bills that could have been half the cost if they'd acted sooner," Urbonas explains. "More importantly, they unknowingly put themselves and their families at risk every time they got in the car."
Contemporary catalytic converters can cost anywhere from £200 to over £2,000, depending on your vehicle, but that's insignificant compared to the consequences of carbon monoxide poisoning or the potential for complete engine failure.
What measures can you take to prevent this problem?
According to Urbonas, when it comes to vehicle safety, taking preventative measures is far more effective than dealing with problems after they arise. He recommends: "Regular servicing is your first line of defence. Have your exhaust system inspected at least once a year, or more frequently if you drive an older vehicle. Garages typically will include this in a standard service, but don't be afraid to request an exhaust check."
Urbonas also stresses the need to stay vigilant about any alterations in how your car performs. "If your engine sounds different, your fuel economy drops suddenly, or you notice a smell of any kind that wasn't there before, get it checked immediately," he cautions.
"These early warnings give you the chance to fix small problems before they become dangerous or expensive.."
Keeping your vehicle properly maintained overall is essential, Urbonas explains. "Issues with one system can cascade into others, so staying on top of routine maintenance helps prevent the kind of failures that lead to dangerous leaks."
He continues: "If you're buying used parts for repairs, always source them from reputable suppliers who guarantee quality and compatibility with your specific vehicle model."