Hello All, I bought a 2009 Clubby S one month ago with 35,000 miles on it. I love it! Only one problem..... When I hit higher speeds (and RPM's) an exhuast smell comes into the cabin. I have an appointment with the dealership next week and a warranty, but if I don't have to use either it would be great. What do you all think the smell is coming from?

 

Smell like rotten eggs?

 

It does smell like rotten eggs!!!

 

might need a new catalytic converter, it happened to someone on here a year ago with a stock exhaust.

 

How much does a after market cat converter cost? and are there any reccomendations as to which one to go with if it's that the issue? I will probably take it somewhere else instead of the dealer if that is the problem.

 

I think emission items are covered ( no deduc ) for atleast 8yrs 80K and a new cat can run from $400 to $800 .

 

That would be fantastic if they were covered. I will check, thanks.

 

FWIW, I get it sometimes.. when I really.. really get on the throttle...

Im at 12K miles, always use 93 octane fuel, car is well cared for etc..

My windows are generally down.. the sulfur smell can come from a few sources - mostly due to the small sulfur content in modern fuels.

http://www.epa.gov/otaq/fuels/gasoli...lfur/index.htm

If it only happens when you really push the car, its most likely normal as this is a common issue with many other makes and models. Sulfur is converted to hydrogen sulphide, this is "shocked loose" under wide open throttle and is picked up by your nose. Our bodies make hydrogen sulphide.. its what makes farts stink!

Why do you smell it inside the car? Well, there is an aerodynamic bubble formed behind the car. Exhaust gas gets swirled in the vortex and some is passed upwards into the wheel arch vent area - located in the rear of the body. While generally these vents allow a positive pressure inside the car, they can also become slightly negative under high speeds.

Some of that smell makes its way into the car, our noses are super, super sensitive to hydrogen sulphide.

This is also why the back of a hatchback gets so damn dirty!



What can you do?

Well, more frequent high speed blasts will prevent the buildup of hydrogen sulphide in the converter. Sometimes changing a fuel brand or grade will also help..


Again, this is not just a Mini issue, if you search for "rotten egg smell car" you'll see its quite common.

 

thanks danjreed. I appreciate the assist.