Why would your car smell like burning rubber when you are in stop and go traffic but not traveling at a normal speed?

The burning rubber smell is most likely caused by the brakes overheating when you are repeatedly braking in stop-and-go traffic. When the brakes are applied, the friction between the brake pads and rotors generates heat. If the brakes are used too frequently or heavily, the heat can build up and cause the brake components to overheat. This overheating can cause the brake pads to wear out prematurely and produce a burning smell.

Here are a few reasons why the brakes might overheat in stop-and-go traffic:

- Heavy braking: When you brake hard or brake frequently, it generates more heat than light braking. This is because the friction between the brake pads and rotors increases when the brakes are applied more forcefully.

- Extended periods of braking: If you are in stop-and-go traffic for an extended period of time, the brakes will be used more frequently than they would be when driving at a normal speed. This can lead to overheating.

- Lack of air flow: When you are driving at a normal speed, the air flowing over the brakes helps to cool them down. However, when you are in stop-and-go traffic, the air flow is reduced, which can cause the brakes to overheat.

- Worn-out brake pads: Brake pads wear out over time, and worn out brake pads create more friction than new brake pads. This can also cause a burning smell.

If you notice a burning rubber smell coming from your car, it is important to pull over and let the brakes cool down. If the smell persists, you should have your brakes checked by a mechanic as soon as possible.