What’s that smell? If it’s not spilled drinks, moldy food or smelly sports gear, then you might be in trouble. Knowing what smells mean car trouble could help you save your engine before it’s too late. So, keep a nose out for these 5 car smells that mean trouble:

Pancakes

There’s no IHOP in sight, and yet you distinctly smell that syrupy-sweet scent of pancakes. Chances are, you have a coolant leak. That is not good. It could also be a leaky radiator hose, or a problem with the heater core. Either way, it’s important to get that checked out ASAP.

Rotten Eggs

Unless you forgot about that egg carton you were planning to throw at houses last Halloween, the smell of rotten eggs could mean death for your car – or at least your catalytic converter. That is never a cheap fix, however, many new cars cover the cat (catalytic converter) under warranty.

Hot Oil

The smell of hot oil is a sign of an oil leak: specifically, oil is leaking onto your exhaust manifold. If you see smoke coming from the exhaust, then it’s the valve cover. If you see oil on the pavement, then it’s the crankshaft.

Burning Carpet

This smell usually means your brake pads are bad, or could be a sign that you left your handbrake on by mistake.

Burnt Rubber

If you smell burnt rubber then pull over immediately and make sure none of your hoses or belts are resting on the hot engine. If not, it could also mean that a belt has become loose or is about to break. If so, replace it as soon as you can.