Automotive Technology Expert Says Loose Hose Clamp Could be Source of Strange Smell

There are many different hose clamp types and hose clamp sizes. From large stainless steel hose clamps to mini plastic hose clamps and plenty in between. Basically, they’re a device used to attach and seal a hose onto a fitting such as a barb or nipple and are normally used for hoses 1/2 in diameter and up.

One of the common areas you’ll find stainless steel hose clamps is in cars to keep many of the inner tubes in place. According to Brad Bergholdt, an automotive technology instructor at Evergreen Valley College who writes a QandA-type column, a loose hose clamp could be the cause of strange smells stemming from your vehicle.

As reported by the Pittsburgh-area news site Triblive.com, he responded to a recent question that asked:

“I’ve been smelling a sweet, citrus-like odor from the outside front of my car after parking it. Any ideas what it could be?”

Bergholdt responded that it’s most likely a coolant leak, which could be caused by a faulty hose clamp.

“Check the coolant level (engine cold) and top off with tap water as needed prior to seeking service,” Bergholdt wrote. “A pressure check and careful visual inspection should determine the cause. With luck it may be something as simple as a split hose or loose hose clamp.”

Stainless steel hose clamps are manufactured to ensure a tight seal between a hose and barb. Without that proper seal there’s a high risk of leakage no matter what the substance or function.

Hose clamps can be an easy and inexpensive fix if caught and dealt with early on, but can develop into more serious issues if neglected. If you’re ever in this kind of situation it’s best to have your vehicle looked at by a professional mechanic.

Whether it’s a stainless steel hose clamp or made of some other material, there’s a chance it will come loose naturally even if it was installed correctly. Buy hose clamps from Hose Clamp Kings and ensure that, quality-wise, you’ll never have an issue.