There are a handful of methods for diagnosing potential automotive repair concerns before they get worse. Sight and sound will tell you a lot about the condition your car is in, but there are also a few strange smells you should keep in mind whenever you're behind the wheel. If you're looking for another effective way to stay ahead of expensive car repairs, follow this guide to identify and remedy the most common odors at the source. 

A Guide to Troubleshooting Strange Car Smells

Which Odors Require a Mechanic?

Before you raise red flags over every smell in your vehicle, prioritize those that will inevitably require automotive repair. Sulfuric odors, for instance, typically indicate a gear lube leak in the differential housing, manual transmission, or transfer case of your car. Thick oil spots under your car will confirm this suspicion, and you'll need a licensed mechanic to handle associated repairs. 

Other odors that point to potential leaks are gasoline smells, which indicate a problem with the fuel tank vent hose or fuel-injection line, and hot oil smells, which are often linked to crankshaft or valve cover leaks. There's also the issue of radiator leaks, which will generate a sweet smell, like maple syrup. The sooner you take your car in for automotive repair, the easier it will be to avoid further complications.

Some of the more costly smells — according to Popular Mechanics — are akin to rotten eggs and burning paper. While the former might be tied to fuel-injection issues, the source of the problem could also be catalytic converter failure. Both will require the help of an experienced mechanic, as will the clutch-related complications to which that burnt paper smell points to. 

How Will a Mechanic Help? 

In the case of a leakage, a mechanic is the only reliable way to repair the affected areas. Leaks in the transmission and other complex components should only be handled by a professional. Messing with these parts could lead to pricier repairs, so take your vehicle in for the most accurate diagnosis and solution. Mechanics are also the most dependable way to handle replacements for your catalytic converter and clutch, especially if your warranty no longer covers these procedures. 

Most importantly, your local experts will be able to take all of these strange smell diagnoses a step further. They may uncover less obvious culprits behind your concerns, saving you and your car from what would have otherwise been a complicated and intimidating automotive repair task. 

If you notice any strange odors coming from your vehicle, take it into Branford Radiator Repair Service, of New Haven County, CT, for automotive repair. This highly-regarded mechanic shop has been helping drivers get back on the road in perfect condition for over 30 years, ensuring that you can count on them for jobs of all sizes. Call them at (203) 488-7346 to schedule an appointment today, and visit them online for more information about their services.