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IF YOU'VE DETECTED THIS TYPE OF ODOUR, YOU BETTER ACT FAST 18:23, 04 Jun 2025 Drivers are being warned of a 'sugary smell' in their car which, if detected late, could result

in them spending over £1,000 to repair. The caution applies only to drivers of petrol and diesel vehicles, as the mysterious odour is most likely to be an indicator of a coolant or

antifreeze leak. Detection of the smell too late could provide a huge blow for cash-strapped car users, as damage to either of these components may lead to a four-figure payout, reports the

Express. Pete Ridley, automotive expert at Car Finance Saver has warned drivers not to ignore the faint sweet smell - which is often misdiagnosed as a faulty air freshener or spilt drink.

"People are quick to notice when something feels or sounds off, but the smell of coolant is one of the most overlooked early warnings," Mr Ridley said. "And that delay in

action can lead to overheating, damaged components, and engine failure, with repairs easily exceeding £1,000." Coolant is a vital feature in any vehicle with the solution helping to

regulate engine temperature. Article continues below Leaks can often come about due to worn hoses, loose caps, or small cracks in the system. The expert stresses 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. Mr Ridley also warns 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. He 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 of the issue 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. Article continues below "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."