2002 Oldsmobile Alero

Hi:
It doesn't sound like a heater core problem. To me it sounds like there is a fuel leak under the car's hood. Follow the fuel line from the tank to the engine compartment fuel rail to check for leaks. Also, check around all fuel injectors for leaks where they mount to the engine. They have rubber 0-rings that go bad and leak. Keep in mind, any fuel leak is potentionaly a fire hazard. You need to find it and repair it ASAP.

Let me know if you have questions or problems identifying the leak.

Have a great Christmas,

Joe

Thanks for the ideas. I have looked for any gas leaks, did not find any as of yet.

Hi:
With the engine running, check around the base of the injectores. The o-ring may be bad on one or more of them.

Let me know what you find, and have a great Christmas.

Joe

My dad and I checked it. NO LEAKS anywhere.Now when I use the heater I do not smell it at all. Could it have been just some bad gas from the gas station?

Hi:
No, the type of gas wouldn't cause it. If it happens again, check for leaks when you smell it.

Let me know if you have any other questions.

Joe

Could it be the charcoal filter with the emissions?

Hi:
Yes, it could be anything with the EVAP. If you suspect the EVAP system has a leak, take the car to a shop and have them fog the system. What they do is force fog throughout the EVAP system. If there is a leak, you will see the fog leak from that spot.

Again, if you think it may be the EVAP system, pay the few bucks to have it fogged. Otherwise, you will go crazy trying to find the leak.


Let me know if this helps. Also, is the smell back?

Joe

I will have it checked out this week. The smell comes and goes now, before I smelled it all the time.


Thanks,
Caren