I just picked up my H3 Alpha after paying $2400 for a new Cat converter, new plugs and wires, torque service, and brakes. I drove it to 95 degree weather and it doesn't smell hot, it smells like a syrup smell. I guess that's the best way to explain it. I'm paranoid because I don't want to breakdown with my dogs in the car without my husband. Any ideas why? It's a strong smell but nothing's leaking.

 

in cold weather if im out of the h3 when first starting i notice a sweet smell from the cat. i think they changed from the original rotten egg smell of early cats to new metals that smell better.
your new one maybe doing it more cause its new,,,a guess!!
get ure nose out there

 

I think that's that new cat you smell. I think the smell will go away with warmer weather and a little time. The mechanics may have also gotten some oils or grease on the exhaust that has to bake off.