Smell exhaust fumes inside the car while driving

Symptoms

• Exhaust odor noticeable inside the car, especially with windows up
• Smell may be worse at idle, in traffic, or with the rear windows/hatch open
• Possible headache, dizziness, or drowsiness if exposure continues
• Smell strongest coming through the vents in some cases

Likely causes

• CommonExhaust leak near the front of the systemA leak near the manifold or a joint under the cabin floor can let fumes seep in, especially with a cabin air intake nearby.
• PossibleRusted-through floor pan or body seamRust holes can let exhaust and road fumes into the cabin, especially in older vehicles.
• PossibleTrunk or hatch seal allowing exhaust in (hatchbacks/SUVs)Driving with the rear window or hatch open can pull exhaust into the cabin through the airflow pattern.
• PossibleDamaged exhaust system near the cabinA hole or disconnected section closer to the middle of the car has a shorter path into the cabin.

What to do

1. If the smell is strong, open windows immediately for fresh air and get out of the car once safely parked.
2. Avoid driving with the rear liftgate or hatch cracked open, since this can pull exhaust into the cabin.
3. Have the exhaust system inspected for leaks, especially sections running under the passenger area.
4. Check the floor pan and trunk area for rust holes or gaps if the car is older or has had rust issues.
5. Have a shop check that the cabin air intake isn't drawing in nearby exhaust fumes.
6. Consider a carbon monoxide detector for the car if this has happened more than once, and don't drive the car regularly until the source is found and fixed.

Tools and parts

• Flashlight

When to call a pro

See a shop promptly to find and repair the leak path, since exhaust fumes in the cabin are a genuine health and safety risk, not just an annoyance.

Safety