2001 Toyota Avalon - AC smells like exhaust

Maintenance/Repairs
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1

Friday, June 14, 2019
10:49pm et
Hi Tom & Ray,

Just a few days ago this began with my 2001 Toyota Avalon. When I turn my air conditioner on now I smell what seems to me to be exhaust fumes even though my air intake selector is set to recirculate. This never happened before when set to recirculate.

Two questions please Tom & Ray:

#1. What is the best way to find out what’s causing this please?

#2. Money is real tight due to serious illness so whatever you feel is wrong what would you two guess it would cost to fix please on a 2001 Toyota Avalon?

Thank You Tom & Ray,
-Dan Caligiuri

2

I don’t know why exhaust would enter only under those conditions, but I do know if there is exhaust entering the interior of your vehicle there could be more health conditions in your future. The subtle effects of carbon monoxide can put you at risk of an accident also. I know money’s tight, but you should deal with this immediately. If you can have an assistant hold a bunch of rags over the tail pipe while idling, you may find an exhaust leak. Never get under a vehicle if it is not supported properly.