It started yesterday. It kind of smells like burnt plastic or rubber... Also, when I came to work this morning as I was warming down my car and revved it, I heard a slight rattling noise above 3000 rpm's... am due for 20,000 mile service next week. Anyone know what this is, and can I wait until next week to have it looked at? Getting kinda worried and thanks in advance...
...Oh, by the way, didn't think "weird smell" would be of use in the archives.
silver 1.8t '98.5
it looks like other people have had similar experiences due to a burnt clutch. The problem is, I DO NOT drive my car hard at all.... the only issue is I drive 70 miles to work. Also, this smell started after I had my car valet'd (yeah, I know, stupid - didn't have a choice). Could it be possible that the mutha who parked my car didn't know how to drive??? I'm hoping this is a temporary thing... can someone please advise me on this? Thanks.
Greg Davis
10-08-1999, 07:42 AM
If my new car is prone to burning, there is something wrong with this picture.
ErikR
10-08-1999, 08:05 AM
The valet did some great clutch drops; happens all the time. Likely not fatal, just annoying, smell goes away. (smells distinctive, but not like plastic, more like hot brakes)
The turbo is finally burning off the surface coating. If you don't drive all that aggresively and never had the burning plastic smell, this is it. This is always non-fatal (and very common).
The rattle could be an issue. Sometimes the cat core breaks apart, makes rattling noises, and overheats. Just pop the hood after a long drive and look at the color-it should not be glowing. The rattle may be due to a broken exhaust bolt and you are smelling the fumes? Both of these can be dangerous and easy to check by the dealer.