Re: HVAC smells and leaking coolant (archive)

We looked at EVERYTHING under the hood during a recent oil change, and found no leaks. Of course, there could be a small leak in the passenger compartment at the heat exchanger. I have had no coolant loss, though.

BTW, a little vaporized coolant doesn't appear to be a health hazard. But that's no reason to let it continue. If you are topped up, and "lose" coolant again, then suggest the dealer check the coonnections at the heat exchanger.

Actually, they won't listen to you if you suggest that. You have to tell them the symptoms: smell of coolant in the car, loss of coolant, and try & keep track of the HVAC settings so you can tell them that, too.

I have had my X5 for 6 weeks and have been very unhappy with the various smells coming from the HVAC system. Initially, there was a strong sweet smell coming especially from the rear, almost like a heavy air freshener. That seems to be subsiding a little, but there is also an aluminum smell coming from the air conditioning. Worst of all, last week a new weird smell started coming from vents when on the freeway and I just today got the "check coolant level" message and it is way too low. I'm afraid of what might be blowing at my kids from those vents. The dealership is not exactly thrilled with a middle aged woman who smells things wrong with her car. Can anyone help me?

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