Why Does My Car Smell Like Ammonia?

Ownership and Maintenance
1

I’ve recently noticed a strong smell of ammonia coming from my car, and I’m not sure what to make of it. I usually drive a [insert car make/model here], and while I don’t remember it smelling like this before, it’s definitely become quite off-putting. Here’s what I’ve noticed:

Symptoms

  • The smell intensifies, particularly when the engine is running.
  • Sometimes, I can even smell it when the air conditioning is on.
  • There hasn’t been any overheating, and my temperature gauge seems normal.

Potential Causes

From my research, it seems like several issues could cause this ammonia odor. I’m particularly concerned about:

  • Malfunctioning Catalytic Converter: Could this be affecting emissions?
  • Coolant Leak: Ammonia can also indicate coolant problems. I haven’t seen any leaks, but should I check beneath the hood?
  • Air Conditioning Issues: Is it possible that the residual smell might come from my A/C system?

What I Have Tried

  • Checked for any visible coolant leaks and fluid levels.
  • Run the A/C to see if the smell dissipates or worsens.
  • Looked for any warning lights on the dashboard, but nothing has appeared.

Seeking Advice

Has anyone encountered this issue before? What steps should I take to diagnose the problem? Is it urgent that I get this looked at by a mechanic? I’m hoping to avoid any costly repairs if possible. Any tips or experiences would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

2

If your car smells like ammonia, it could be due to coolant leaks. The coolant can sometimes break down and emit that odor. Check your cooling system for any leaks or damage.

3

Additionally, mold buildup in the AC system might also cause that smell. If you haven’t used your AC in a while, it’s worth checking out!

4

So true! I had the same issue, and a simple cleaning of the AC fixed the problem. Worth trying if you can!

5

That’s a great point! Don’t forget to inspect the battery as well—corroded battery terminals can produce an ammonia-like smell too.

2 Likes
6

I’ve had ammonia smells in my car too, and I found out it was from a spill that had gone unnoticed. Check under your seats for any forgotten containers or food!

7

That’s a smart tip! Sometimes we overlook those embarrassing spills that turn foul.

8

I wonder if the smell could be coming from fertilizer or cleaning products left in the trunk. Has anyone tested that theory?

7 Likes
9

That’s a unique thought! Always good to check every possibility. Better safe than sorry!

8 Likes
10

Could it also be a sign of a more serious issue with the engine? Hope it’s nothing too dire!

11

Very possible! If multiple checks don’t identify the source, I’d recommend seeing a mechanic soon.

12

It’s great to see so many contributing—I’m sure the original poster will appreciate all this input! Let’s hope it’s a minor issue.

13

Absolutely—it’s nice to have a supportive community for these car troubles!

1 Like
14

Could it simply be related to the exterior temperature or a recent weather change? Sometimes I think odors are amplified with heat or humidity.

15

That’s an interesting point! Maybe the smells have always been there but become more noticeable lately.

16

I remember my old car smelled like ammonia after a rain—turns out I had a leak in the windshield seal! Might be worth checking for leaks too.

17

Good reminder! Car odors can sometimes trace back to simple leaks we ignore until it becomes a problem.

8 Likes
18

If your car smells like ammonia, it’s important to address it immediately! Ammonia can be harmful to breathe in, especially in enclosed spaces like a car. It’s often a sign of a coolant leak or battery issues. Don’t ignore it!

19

Absolutely! Exposure to ammonia fumes can cause respiratory issues. It’s better to be cautious and get your car checked out.

20

I experienced a similar problem! It turned out to be a leaking battery. The smell was definitely concerning and I felt relieved after getting it fixed. It’s vital for passenger safety!