Are diesel engines generally a bit smelly at the exhaust? Or does the car need to be checked out.

 

Sure, they are. Just smell it and you will understand.

Sometimes you simply understand that car driving nearby was diesel

This is the first diesel car I have actually owned. I have borrowed one or two for a day but never actually owned one so it's all new to me.

The last diesel engine vehicle I borrowed was a l200 animal, so completely different to my vrs.

I noticed another issue last night. May or may not be related to my initial query.

After driving the car a short distance (engine was still hot from previous journey) I stopped to speak to someone got out and walked round the front of the car while engine was running and noticed a smell of diesel from the passenger side. Was definitely exhaust rather than raw diesel. (was a little windy so possible the wind blowing the exhaust)

I finished conversation and continued my journey. Parked the car up. Turned engine off and popped the bonnet. Had a look for obvious signs of diesel etc couldn't see or smell anything.

Started the car up and still nothing obvious, smell or otherwise.

Are diesel engines generally a bit smelly at the exhaust? Or does the car need to be checked out.

It's much more noticeable after I have had some "lead" in my right foot.

 

pop the bonnet, remove the engine cover and get someone to rev whilst looking for any smoke from the back of the engine