Strange odor
#1
11-30-2008, 09:27 AM
Strange odor
I have a strange odor in my 2006 Lexus RX400h. I am posting the problem here as I think the Highlander and the RX are very similar and, given that there are more Highlanders on the roads, I am more likely to find someone who has had the same problem.
I bought the Lexus RX400h used and did not notice a strange odor in the cabin until it was too late. To me, it is a "chemical" odor that I would associate with outgassing of some material. To some, it smells like spicey peppers (e.g., in Thai food). The odor builds up when the car is turned off and closed up. It appears to disipate within a minute or less after driving, probably due to dilution by air from the cabin ventilation system. Recently, I tried to locate the source of the smell by sniffing around. That day, it appeared to be coming from the vents to the battery compartment (vents are located under the rear seat). I also sometimes detect the odor when I step out of the vehicle. One guess is that the odor is due to outgassing from the battery, perhaps due to a breach in the casing; however, I don't have anything to back this up except the apparent location of the source, which is itself suspect. Has anyone had this problem or heard of others having it? Thanks, Chris
I bought the Lexus RX400h used and did not notice a strange odor in the cabin until it was too late. To me, it is a "chemical" odor that I would associate with outgassing of some material. To some, it smells like spicey peppers (e.g., in Thai food). The odor builds up when the car is turned off and closed up. It appears to disipate within a minute or less after driving, probably due to dilution by air from the cabin ventilation system. Recently, I tried to locate the source of the smell by sniffing around. That day, it appeared to be coming from the vents to the battery compartment (vents are located under the rear seat). I also sometimes detect the odor when I step out of the vehicle. One guess is that the odor is due to outgassing from the battery, perhaps due to a breach in the casing; however, I don't have anything to back this up except the apparent location of the source, which is itself suspect. Has anyone had this problem or heard of others having it? Thanks, Chris
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