Here are some of the most likely culprits:
* Overheating: The smell of antifreeze strongly suggests an overheating issue. This could be due to a failing water pump, a leak in the cooling system (hose, radiator, etc.), a thermostat problem, a low coolant level, or a failing radiator fan. Overheating can cause the engine to shut down as a safety precaution to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
* Electrical Problem: A failing ignition system, alternator, or other electrical component could cause the engine to cut out intermittently. This could also be related to the "Service Engine Soon" light.
* Fuel System Issues: While less likely given the antifreeze smell, a problem with the fuel pump, fuel filter, or fuel injectors could also cause the engine to stall.
* Sensor Malfunction: A faulty sensor (like a crankshaft position sensor or mass airflow sensor) can cause the engine to misfire or shut down. The "Service Engine Soon" light will likely be illuminated in this case.
What you should do:
1. Stop driving the car immediately. Continuing to drive it risks severe engine damage.
2. Have the car towed to a qualified mechanic. They can properly diagnose the problem using diagnostic tools to read the trouble codes stored by the car's computer. This is crucial for pinpointing the cause.
3. Do NOT attempt to fix this yourself unless you have significant automotive experience. Improper repairs can worsen the problem and be dangerous.
The smell and the stalling strongly suggest a serious problem, likely related to overheating. Ignoring it could result in a costly engine repair or replacement. Get it to a mechanic as soon as possible.
