Strange smell in 2011 GLK350
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GLK350
Strange smell in 2011 GLK350
Lately, on several occasions I have noticed a strange smell in my car. It is not very strong and seems like it is coming from the dashboard vents. It smells a bit like caramel or butterscotch. I am thinking it may have something to do with the heater core having a very small leak and what I am smelling is coolant. The funny thing is that the first time I noticed it was the day after I ate a bunch of toffees while driving. I searched under the seats for one that may have escaped, or a wrapper, but found none. I don't always smell it and just know that if I bring it to the dealer, it will be a no smell day. Anyone had a heater core leak cause this smell?
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Joined: Feb 2015
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From: Ontario, Canada
2013 GLK250 Bluetec
Lately, on several occasions I have noticed a strange smell in my car. It is not very strong and seems like it is coming from the dashboard vents. It smells a bit like caramel or butterscotch. I am thinking it may have something to do with the heater core having a very small leak and what I am smelling is coolant. The funny thing is that the first time I noticed it was the day after I ate a bunch of toffees while driving. I searched under the seats for one that may have escaped, or a wrapper, but found none. I don't always smell it and just know that if I bring it to the dealer, it will be a no smell day. Anyone had a heater core leak cause this smell?
If you figure out how to bottle the toffee/caramel smell - i'll buy it
Last edited by GLKpaul; Apr 22, 2015 at 07:14 AM. Reason: Thumbs...
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Mar 2015
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GLK350
Follow up
Well, it seems the smell is only really noticeable when the heat is on and the fan is on low. No smell with aircon that I can tell. It's almost like someone dropped a old, wet butter rum lifesaver in the air vent. I still think it is a really slow sweat type leak in the heater core or hose. There doesn't seem to be any film on the inside of the windshield other than the standard crud that is always on there. I will have to check the cabin filter. That is a good idea, I would have never thought of that.
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