I have a 2002 Camry V6. Early on I smelled sulphur. The dealer tried to convince me that the smell comes because of short drive distances and is absent on highways. I did not beleive the explanation because I smelled sulphur on highways as well and because it did not make sence from the design point of view; but I had no desire to argue and went back to my busy life.

About ten days ago, the "Check engine" light came on. A mechanic told me it MAY be related to the exhaust system malfunction. When I suggested this to the service rep at the dealership this morning, she told me that her 2003 Toyota stinks suplphur all the time, including the highways.
I do not think that anyone is in business of manufacturing stinky cars. Will appreciate any technical or semi-technical explanation of the a) smell and b) the reason(s) for the "Check engine" light.

Thank you.
Boris F.

The sulfur smell usually comes from the catalytic converter. It may indicate a failure but I have heard that the gas mixtures in some parts of the country can cause the smell as well. I suggest you run a code scan and find out why the check engine light is coming on.

This is almost completely theortical but check the injectors as well. I've heard of exhaust problems stemming from leaky injectors. the rich fuel mixture causes a chemical reaction with the catylitic converter and can cause funny smells when it melts the medium in the converter.

Could be a place to start.

It could be just the seasonally winterized gas mixture thats starting to be distributed but there is a Toyota technical support bulletin.
TSB EG011-04 May 13, 2004 Title "Excessive Carbon Dioxide Odor". '02-'04 Camry. Your dealer should look it up and check your VIN number to determine if it's one of those needing a new catalytic converter. The warranty code for the free replacement is OP CODE 170171 "R&R Catalytic Converter Assembly. Time 0.6 OFP 17410-0A340 The warranty is for 96 months or 80,000 miles. If the dealer claims ignorance then contact Toyota.