04 Toyota 4Runner Smells like Eggs

2004 TOYOTA 4RUNNER
Avatar
MRMCCLINTOCK
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I have a 2004 Toyota 4Runner Limited. Has 38,000 miles. It is emitting an awful sulfur or rotten egg smell...especially in stop-n-go traffic or if I run the engine hard, such as a fast acceleration.

Suggestions?
Apr 19, 2007 at 8:46 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
RASMATAZ
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 75,992 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
A rich fuel mixture will often produce a "rotten egg" odor in the exhaust (the smell is hydrogen sulfide). Underlying problems may include an engine management system that is not going into closed loop (check the coolant and oxygen sensors
Apr 19, 2007 at 9:23 AM
Avatar
WALTER5550
  • MEMBER
  • 13 POSTS
Hey there,

Have you checked your battery(ies), it could be that one is on it's way home and dying slowly. When driving the car hard you will overcharge the battery and the heat of the engine might contribute to the production of gases in the battery cell.
Sooner or later the battery won't do the job anymore, if this is the cause.

Good luck
Dec 14, 2007 at 9:32 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.