Petrol and diesel vehicles may be emitting warning signs of serious damage which could cost road users up to £1,000 in repair bills, according to experts. Pete Ridley, automotive expert at Car Finance Saver has warned a sugary, chemical scent when starting a vehicle could be a sign of a coolant or antifreeze leak.
The faint sweet smell may be ignored by road users and misdiagnosed as a simple air freshener or spilt drink. However, it could be a car’s way of signalling a serious trouble which could lead to a four-figure bill in a blow to cash-strapped road users. Pete Ridley stressed that a delay in taking action could see damaged components getting worse and it could set road users back more than £1,000.
He said: “People are quick to notice when something feels or sounds off, but the smell of coolant is one of the most overlooked early warnings.
“And that delay in action can lead to overheating, damaged components, and engine failure, with repairs easily exceeding £1,000.”
Coolant is an important feature in any vehicle with the solution helping to regulate engine temperature.
Leaks can often start due to worn hoses, loose caps, or small cracks in the system in a major concern.
The experts stress that even a minor leak can release a sweet, chemical-like scent into the cabin with the issue perhaps more noticeable after a short drive.
Specialists also warn that the scent is usually strongest when the engine is warm or when road users have the heating trend on
This is because coolant vapours can pass through the air vents straight into a driver’s face.
Pete added: “Drivers will top up the coolant and think that’s the fix. But if you’re topping it up regularly, that’s a red flag. It’s not evaporating, it’s leaking, and your car’s trying to tell you. If that sweet smell hits every time the fans do, it’s time to get it checked.”
Taking quick action to identify a potential leak could see road users fix the issue before components become seriously damaged.
Other major warning signs include misty windows, high engine temperatures, and the need to regularly top up coolant levels.
Pete explained: “Look for sticky residue around the coolant tank, damp areas near hoses, or a significant drop in coolant levels over time.
“Spotting a leak early could mean a £30 repair instead of a four-figure bill,” says Ridley. “So it’s always worth a quick check just to be safe.”
