Exactly. Just like after sex. As it SHOULD be...

 

I doubt its Cosmoline in the exhaust, anyone know what the cause is?

 

You are right. It is not cosmoline on the exhaust. That stuff wouldn't last anytime on hot exhaust pipes.

But it does last and outgas from the heat a long time on other components, like the engine cases, and drive train/suspension components.

Still, the smell can be normal.

There is a very large engine back there along with a substantial bit of drive train, brakes, tires, and lots of exhaust. When fully up to temp, which doesn't require a spirited drive, and confined into a rear engine compartment that doesn't get the air flow a front engine car's engine compartment gets, that it smells is not surprising.

But smells are like noises. Without being at the car one can't say for sure whether the smell is normal or due to a fluid leak.

Thus the OP should check vital fluid levels and if he is still concerned arrange to get the car inspected which requires raising the car so the tech can check for fluid leaks. Invariably these are best searched for with the car in the air.

 

You are correct, it isn't Cosmoline but it is perfectly normal even under basic driving habits. Confirmed this popular misconception at Auto Gallery's Technician Day about six months ago. I do like walking past the rear of the car after driving it. The heat and that smell. Love it.

 

It's the smell of rubber burning on you exhaust. It's the smell of pure passion

 

Funny I did a search because I found the same smell, back when I had my Air-Cooled P-Car I thought it was an air-cooled thing, I am glad it is a P-Car thing, I love the smell.

 

I believe it is the black rubber powder that coats the back of the car. The tires are very soft and shed a fine coating with each outing. I have a white car which really shows the black powder being worn from the tires. Well, right behind the rear tires just inches away are two very hot mufflers. I can't imagine what else it could possibly be.

 

bean burritos?

 

Tire's