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UK Drivers Warned: Rotten-Egg Car Smell Signals Dangerous Exhaust Fault

Motorists are urged to stop, ventilate, then seek professional inspection due to carbon monoxide risk.

Overview

  • An advisory from Kazimieras Urbonas of Ovoko says a sulphur-like odour commonly indicates a failing catalytic converter or a fuel-system fault.
  • Exhaust leaks can channel colourless, odourless carbon monoxide into the cabin, with symptoms that include headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion and potential loss of consciousness.
  • Drivers are told to pull over safely, open doors and windows, switch off the engine, move everyone to fresh air and call 999 if severe symptoms appear.
  • People are advised not to restart or drive the vehicle and to arrange towing for a qualified inspection of the exhaust, catalytic converter and related components.
  • Regular servicing with yearly exhaust checks is recommended, as delays raise repair costs, with catalytic-converter replacements typically ranging from about £200 to over £2,000.