Believe it or not, the annoying odor comes from the car battery. The rotten egg smell associated with a bad car battery often has a distinct acidic undertone due to the presence of sulfuric acid. Hydrogen sulfide gas, which has an odor similar to sewage water, or rotten eggs, is produced while a lead battery is deteriorating. In that case, the battery capacity is too low to provide enough energy for starting up your vehicle. Don . If you have an internal short in your battery, then you have lead plates that are touching each other inside the battery when they should actually be separated by electrolyte. This article will examine why your car battery might smell like rotten eggs, whether it is dangerous, and what you can do to remedy the situation. One of the most obvious symptoms that a car battery is failing is leaking battery acid. Yet, this is precisely what can happen with some batteries. Smart chargers will carry out the process automatically without need the need to intervene. Is It Dangerous? If it fails, the ECU the cars computer lets you know that the battery isnt charged adequately. What could cause a rotten egg smell more than an actual egg thats rotting? Copyright 2023 Mechanic Base. Leaking fluid can smell like a multitude of different things, but some people say it is similar to rotten milk or eggs. However, mechanical failure should always be dealt with immediately, whether it is an overcharging alternator or a bad catalytic converter. Inhaling high concentrations of this gas can irritate the eyes and respiratory system, as well as nausea, dizziness, and even unconsciousness. Burning smells can also come from the electrical system, mimicking many of the same odors. Two main components of the fuel system can cause the smell. The foul odor from a battery is sulfuric acid, which smells like hydrogen sulfide or rotten eggs. An electric forklift battery is usually made from lead acid. The cell gets hot and starts to boil off the acid inside. Working with electricity can be deadly if you are not careful. Two wires with alligator clamps at both ends. This can burn the skin and, if got in the eyes, can cause blindness. If the battery acid begins to leak, you will start to notice the rotten egg smell. Sulfur Smell or Rotten Egg smell in the car coming from a boiling car This is especially true if you have had your car in storage for some time or its been left idle at an airport parking lot or long-term parking garage while traveling. Typically this is all due to either too much amperage going into the battery (an over-sized charger), or too much voltage (the charger is in equalization mode). At the end of the day, it wont fully recover the battery. Its normally an indication that oil is getting too hot or is leaking and landing on exhaust parts. Yes, a rotten egg smell coming from a battery almost always signals a bad battery. Like any fluid, whether it be coolant or oil, the additives within the fluid can separate away from the oil itself over time. Gasoline and diesel, by nature, contain hydrogen sulfide. However, if you dont charge the battery for long, the sulfated residue will stick to the plates forever, and guess what? The most likely cause is a leaking battery. What causes the car battery to smell like rotten eggs? How to Fix a Battery That Smells Like Rotten Eggs? It's quite common. But, of course, this damage could result from overcharging, extreme temperature variations, or other factors. Additionally, if the problem is the transmission fluid, you could allow further damage if you dont resolve the situation right away. Most times, the rotten egg smell is caused by a bad catalytic converter. Exposure to higher concentrations of the gas can cause nose, throat, and lung irritations. Light reading articles popular with other readers: What Does A Car Tune Up Consist Of? Whether you are dealing with a car battery or a household battery, understanding the root cause of the odor can help you avoid costly damages and keep you and your loved ones safe. Dont continue driving with a fuel leak present or you are at risk for a car fire. Basically, batteries convert electrical energy from your charger into stored chemical energy. If it did, you want to clean it up right away. This bad smell has various potential causes, but the most common culprit is a mechanical issue with your catalytic converter. There are so many options to choose from. This device helps remove the sulfation buildup on the batterys lead plates, which can reduce the production of hydrogen sulfide gas and the resulting odor. Thats the only way you will avert the odor. Even providing ventilation may not be enough to remove a pool of gas. Most auto parts stores will test for free and give some recommendations on how to fix it. If they become corroded or damaged, it could hinder the batterys ability to provide power, thereby leading to further complications. This gas has a distinct smell, similar to rotten eggs or sulfur, and can be harmful to humans if inhaled in large quantities. Overcharging and storing the batteries at high temperatures can also lead to lead-sulfate formation in your car battery. So, for instance, a 50AH battery would need a 5amp charger. When car batteries discharge, they produce lead sulfate. However, this process can take up to 8-10 hours with some models which Im just not a fan of. All Rights Reserved. In these cases, check to see that all connections are tight and make sure there isnt any corrosion around the terminal posts this can lead to leaking of sulfuric acid onto heated metal components inside the battery box which will create more odor as well as cause corrosive damage. If you purchase products via the links on our site, we might earn affiliate commissions. This was causing excess heat and hydrogen sulfide to be released. If the alternator overcharges the car battery, it can cause the battery acid to boil which will cause a rotten egg smell. The battery can swell in extreme circumstances. Replacing my Car Battery to get rid of the smell, I first started getting the smell in my car, days after I got it, I did not know where it was coming from, . A 12-volt battery, for instance, is fully charged at about 12.65 volts. Batteries can only convert this energy at a certain rate, and that rate is dependent on the current state of charge of the battery. if i. Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "a2cb3615ea508a7683681069027787ff" );document.getElementById("i861520260").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); Power Bank Expert is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Yes, this can happen when there isnt enough water covering the plates inside the battery cells. This type of car battery can leak for a number of reasons. The smell of rotten eggs comes from hydrogen sulfide, which is released when overcharging a battery. The easiest way to keep a battery from smelling like rotten eggs is to use a properly sized charger, do not desulfate your battery, and to use a modern 3 or 4-stage smart charger. A battery smell that resembles rotten eggs is a clear indication of a potentially dangerous problem. My Forklift Smells Like Rotten Eggs - What should I do? - Warehouse IQ Once you rescan it, you will have a better idea where the problem lies. Here are the steps you'll need to take: Take the battery out of the car. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Working with electricity can be deadly if you are not careful. It can be caused by overcharging, mechanical . Why Does My Battery Smell Like Rotten Eggs? - Fix That Smell Required fields are marked *. These problems occur more frequently when its cold outside and the animal needs shelter or when the vehicle is in storage. The level should be about 1/8 to 1/4 below the bottom of the fill tubes. If you drive a vehicle with an automatic transmission, you must make sure you are providing regular changes. The desulfation process might take up to two or three weeks. As its heavier than air, it may still sit below a window level and not be dispersed if indoors. Home Battery Bank is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. What happens when you overcharge a battery? What causes the car battery to smell like rotten eggs? One smell you might notice is the smell of rotten eggs or hydrogen sulfide. The same applies to car batteries. If it smells burnt or unnatural, its time to change it. Chargers from decades ago were not microprocessor controlled. Yes, a brand-new battery can smell like rotten eggs. There's not many moments in life when the smell of rotten eggs is a good omen. RELATED: How Much Does a Catalytic Converter Replacement Cost? Some chargers do this automatically, some have a button that you must push, and some have proprietary technology that desulfates during the normal charging process. Why Does My Car Battery Smell Like Rotten Eggs? Hydrogen sulfide has the distinct smell of rotten eggs or sulfer. Suppose you continue to use the broken battery, although the alternator will deliver power to the battery from the cars motion. The good news is there are ways you can fix this problem! They can provide insights on whether its the right time to replace your battery or if it can be fixed, saving you money in the long haul. Your email address will not be published. Battery smells like rotten eggs can be a common and concerning issue for many people, especially those who rely on batteries for everyday use. If there is a multitude of trouble codes, you might do better to erase them and drive the car again until the light comes back on. This gas has the distinct smell of rotten eggs or sulfur. During this heating process, the sulfuric acid within your battery turns into a gas form of hydrogen sulfide, which is the egg smell you could be smelling if you are charging your battery. This issue should not be ignored, as it could lead to potential dangers, such as leaks or explosions. If you stop charging right away and adjust the charge, you might be able to save it. He has been working as a car mechanic for over 10 years, and the majority of them specialized in advanced car diagnostics and troubleshooting. Rotten Egg Smell in Car? Here's What Might Be Causing It Open the garage door or the windows straight away. It is then further neutralized in the car's emissions . Why Does My Car Smell Like Rotten Eggs - Motor Verso Please consult a certified electrician if there is anything you are uncomfortable with. Home Battery Bank also participates in advertising through Google AdSense and Ezoic. Car has a rotten egg odor due to a malfunctioning fuel system. 4. In this guide, we evaluate the causes of the rotten egg smell in your car and we discuss how to fix it. This is more commonly described as a musty smell though. This is a sign that something is wrong with the battery, and you risk potentially damaging it further if you continue to use it. If your car is under warranty, you contact the manufacturer to change your battery. Lead acid batteries have sulfuric acid which is known to be a gas that smells like a rotten egg. For example, overcharging a battery can cause the electrolyte inside to heat up and evaporate, leading to a buildup of hydrogen gas. Thats just one reason to fix the leak immediately. It can, however, happen when there is an internal short, a malfunctioning battery, or if the charger youre using is old and not microprocessor controlled. To check, gently open your transmission fluid reservoir. If your car smells like rotten eggs and your research online says it's the catalytic converter before you spend the money on that, check your battery. The battery contains sulfuric acid and electrolyte water. Is Rotten Egg Smell From A Battery Dangerous [What To Do] As the battery wears, some of the acid and water may evaporate which will disturb the mixture. A bad fuel rail sensor is more likely to fault the fuel system than a dirty fuel filter. Power Outage: Will Your Water Supply Be Affected? This is because the hydrogen sulfide gas that the battery produces can be both toxic and flammable, which means theres always a risk of serious injury if the situation is not addressed promptly. A new battery is the way to go, here. If your battery is old or damaged, it may need to be replaced. Continue with Recommended Cookies. You can clean the terminals with baking soda and water if you see any corrosion. If the smell is coming from groceries left in your car, theres no danger to driving. Otherwise, you should clean out your car and get rid of whatever is causing the odor before it overpowers the cabin. link to Power Outage: Will Your Water Supply Be Affected? An inefficient engine will leave partly combusted gases that smell like rotten eggs coming from the engine or further down in the exhaust. Transmission fluid is cheap and is a job most DIY mechanics can do themselves. If you have a flooded battery, keep track of your electrolyte levels and carefully add distilled water as needed. Depending on the charging amps, you risk not only the smell of rotten eggs, but also a bulging battery, warped plates, a cracked battery case, a fire or explosion. While these 5 cells are being overcharged, they will be emitting hydrogen sulfide gas as heat is released from the excess electricity. When you open a package containing a brand-new battery, the last thing you expect is to be hit with the pungent smell of rotten eggs. If you dont have a code reader, you can go to the local auto parts store for a free scan. Every time you charge and discharge the broken battery, it should light the lamps for a more extended period. What Happens If an Uber Driver Hits Your Car? Transmission fluid can leak and let air into the system, it also goes black when its old. Why Do People Put a Plastic Bag on a Car Mirror? The reason is because of sulfuric acid and other chemicals used to make the battery. Also, always keep your battery charger unplugged while you connect to the battery terminals, and unplug the charger before removing them after a charge. If your battery is beyond three years old, its more likely to be vulnerable to failure and may not be as efficient in retaining its charge as it once was. But before you do this check, the battery case to make sure there aren't any cracks, or it . When you look at this symptom added to the rotten egg smell, you can be confident that your battery is bad and needs to be replaced as soon as possible. If you stay in that room and the concentration gets high enough, you will poison yourself and can certainly die. Never leave an old school charger unattended! This is why batteries often emit a more pungent odor in hot weather or when used in devices that generate heat, such as laptops or smartphones. Hydrogen sulfide gas, which has an odor similar to sewage water, or rotten eggs, is produced while a lead battery is deteriorating. It can also come from an overcharging alternator, a failing battery, or bad transmission fluid. You will also want to inspect the health of the car battery to ensure it is in good condition. In such cases, it may become a grave issue. article here where I have calculators that you can access that will give you ballpark estimates, Terms and Conditions for Home Battery Bank, Current passing through the battery exceeds the batterys ability to convert it, heat and gasses released, Replace charger with one with lower amps, 10% amp rule, Charger is purposefully increasing the voltage which is a controlled overcharge, heat and gasses released, Switch to a charger without this feature (or has to be toggled manually) or make sure your battery is in a well ventilated area if you are going to use it, Current passing through the battery exceeds the batterys ability to convert it especially in the later stages of charging and after battery is at 100% charged, heat and gasses released, Set a timer or upgrade to a modern microprocessor-controlled, 3 or 4 stage smart charger, Lead plates are shorting out in the battery causing excess heat during use, charging, or even just sitting there, heat and gasses released, Test each battery cell to check the specific gravity on a flooded battery, if one or more is bad, replace the battery. . If cleanliness is the concern, you can fix this quickly with a simple cleanout. At this level of exposure, prolonged exposure might cause headaches, nausea, tearing of the eyes, and of course, the irritating smell. That smell suggests a one or more of: 1) rich mixture, 2) poorly functioning catalyst, or 3) too much sulfur in your fuel. Catalytic converters are part of the exhaust system and often produce a rotten egg smell. Why Does My Car Smell Like Rotten Eggs? 5 Possible Causes Broken Catalytic Converter. Your other fixes shouldnt cost nearly as much. To prevent battery-related accidents from occurring, its essential to maintain your battery correctly. Repeat cycling the battery until cycling no longer improves battery durability significantly. What is mAh (milliampere hour)? Batteries that emit hydrogen sulfide gas will produce odors similar to . Its equally vital to conduct regular inspections on your battery terminals. How often should I check my battery for issues? When the fuel rail sensor goes bad, they may misinterpret the pressure and give an incorrect reading to the cars computer, the ECU. However, if your battery is over three years old, its a good idea to have it checked by a professional to ensure its still in good condition. When I was new to battery banks and was building my own, I was using a charger that was over-sized for my particular setup. I've been doing maintenance and handyman work for the last several years and I'll be including little home and garage tips and tricks that I learn along the way as well. The rotten egg smell is caused by the gas hydrogen sulfide and can cause severe irritation to the throat and sinuses, and even be deadly if it is concentrated highly enough and there is improper ventilation. Therefore, if you notice a strong smell of rotten eggs coming from your battery, you must take action immediately. All modern car batteries are sold fully charged. Many but not all smart chargers have this feature and it also is sometimes called recovery mode. If you suspect that your charger is acting funny, the only practical option is to trash it and purchase a new charger. 5 Reasons It Dies Early, New Catalytic Converter Smell Dangers, Causes and Fixes. Driving more aggressively once in a while will blow out the particles that can start to clog your catalytic converter. Sulfur smells can occur when the battery acid starts leaking. I've been an avid hobbyist in these fields for over 7 years and I enjoy sharing what I've learned in a way that's geared for beginners and those just getting their foot in the door with small engine repair and prepping. This can only be done with a flooded battery where you can pop the caps off, not a sealed battery. If theres a leak from the battery, this is a sign that the battery is failing. In spring, when the aircon might be switched on for the first time in months, its not unusual for the smell of rotting leaves and pine needles to come rushing through the vents. This will sometimes make your car run hotter than usual more so if youre driving up steep hills or accelerating quickly as this is when the transmission fluid pump circulates at its highest speed. As the battery ages, its capability to supply the requisite power to start an engine or device could weaken, causing delays or sluggish starts. Your car battery is attempting to convert this electrical energy from the charger into stored chemical energy within the battery itself. Any charger on the market today is going to be a microprocessor controlled, 3 or 4 stage charger and they should all monitor what the battery can accept and convert, and they will enter into a float mode when the battery is fully charged.I personally stay away from any battery charger that says Do not overcharge battery. That implies that it will not enter into float mode when the battery is fully charged. Even a few breaths of it can cause confusion and a loss of taste and smell. In the meantime, you might be smelling that rotten egg stench. This will eliminate the sparking that occurs when you make that last connection and keep you from igniting any hydrogen gas or hydrogen sulfide. In addition, the gas is highly flammable and can pose a fire hazard if it builds up in an enclosed space. To prevent your battery from smelling like rotten eggs, there are a few steps you can take: The first and most crucial step is ensuring your battery is properly maintained.