Antifreeze smell........sometimes???

[stangeater]

Okay, I've been getting a little anti-freeze smell lately, but the weird thing is that it's not all the time. I've checked everywhere I can think of for a leak, and I don't see my coolant level going down any. What the heck?? Anybody have this problem? Also, I only seem to smell it inside the car, not under the hood. Could it have something to do with my heater core? Heater works okay. I'd be greatful for any suggestions! Thanks guys.

 

[SHOZ123]

Check the heater hose at the firewall. The clamps may need replacing or tightening.

When is the last time the coolant was changed?

 

[stangeater]

I'm not sure when the coolant was changed last. I've owned this sho for a little over a year, and I've never changed it. It still looks good at least color wise.

 

[SASHO91]

now is a good time to change it.

like Paul said, check the lines at the fire wall...

what you could do, to be certain, bypass the heater core, and see if you still smell coolant.

 

[stangeater]

I hate the smell of coolant! I could bypass the heater core, but man it's cold out here! No, I'll try these things and see if it helps. The weird thing is that it's only every now and then when it happens, but I guess a small amount of coolant would be enough to give me the smell.

 

[SHOZ123]

You should change/flush the coolant every year if you do any amount of driving. If the heater core is bad usually you will taste the coolant when the heater is on. It will also coat the inside of the windows.

 

[SHOoff_NYC]

I dunno but I also had problems with smelling the coolant. That was because I had overheating problems... Not once but TWICE. First it was the thermostat(which had to be replaced) and then it was the waterpump(which had to be replaced). But Chris from NESHO took care of that. But I still have antifreeze tank-o-phobia. I always have to check my antifreeze tank often when I go racing. Because both times my coolant tank cracked and had to be replaced twice and boy do I hate that smell of the antifreeze liquid!

 

[stangeater]

Flush your anti-freeze every year??? What do you work at a dealership? Yeah, you also need to rotate your tires every week if you do any amount of driving!! I can't immagine it breaks down that fast, although mine is ready for a flush

 

[SHOZ123]

Yes I flush my anti freeze every year. $15 total. A lot cheaper and easier than radiators, heater cores and water pumps.

I tried tried the long life stuff once and felt too guilty........

 

[stangeater]

Yeah, I know it is time to flush it.

 

[Sagabu]

have you noticed and extra condesation (moisture) in the car lately ?