There may be several reasons associated with a burning smell in a car that we may not yet know. For example, this smell occurs when two surfaces rub against each other. In some situations, you can fix it yourself. Otherwise, we recommend immediately using the services of the nearest car service center. But how to distinguish each case?

Burnt smell from clutch

Clutch – This is a car part that operates under conditions of constant and intense friction. The clutch is subject to constant load, both when the car starts moving and when the engine runs at high speeds.

One of the reasons for the burning smell may be the clutch, for example, in the process of slipping. The source of the smell may be the friction linings of the clutch disc. The smell will resemble burnt paper because… Friction linings are a paper-based composite material.

Don’t panic right away; this only means that during friction the friction linings have heated up and oxidized a little. Over time, they will recover and the clutch will still work for a very long time. Complete wear of the clutch is not accompanied by a burning smell. The main thing is not to let the engine run for a long time at high speeds (for example, slipping or prolonged acceleration in a low gear) and then the clutch of your car will last a long time.

Brakes as a cause of burning smell

Your brake pads can also be the cause of a burning smell in your car. This usually happens when you brake hard and for a long time. During a long descent down a steep hill, you drove on the brakes, and the brake pads overheated. This is not scary, but we still advise you to learn how to brake with your engine.

If a burning smell appears during normal driving, it is most likely due to one of the brake pistons pressing the brake pad against the disc. Also look, maybe you didn’t take the car off the handbrake? If you touch the rims with your hand, the hotter one is the source of the stench. In this situation, it is better to take your car to a car service center.

Electrical wiring smell

The cause of this burning smell may be a short circuit in the electrical circuit of your car. Insulation, plastic coating on wires, fuses or other connections can cause odor.

The solution to this problem is quite simple. All you need to do is fix your car’s electrical system to avoid serious problems. Be sure to turn off the engine and evacuate to the nearest professional auto repair shop. for computer diagnostics and immediately identify all electrical problems.

Smell from heater or air conditioner fan

Check for debris inside the stove. If you haven’t used the stove for a long time, dust may have accumulated. But if the burning smell still appears in the car even after using the heater regularly, then there may be some debris in the vent.

People often find plastic bags or other items stuck in the engine, which can cause a burning smell. However, it is possible that the heater itself is damaged and antifreeze is leaking into the vents. It may also cause an odor. To make matters worse, part of the heater may be broken or melted. If the smell gets stronger and you don’t find any debris stuck on the fan, head to a garage immediately.

Burnt oil smell

Burnt motor oil can be very dangerous. This is one of the most common causes of a burning smell in a car. This means you have an oil leak. This often results in oil getting into the exhaust pipe. The pipe is hot while the car is running and we get a strong smell and blue smoke from the exhaust pipe.

Diagnostics is necessary, inspect the space around the motor. You will probably notice oil stains – a clear sign of an oil leak. Contact a car service center immediately, otherwise this may result in engine failure or fire.

REMEMBER: You can always contact our car service center, where your car will be happy to receive professional technical assistance. You can also make an appointment with us for a scheduled technical inspection! Please familiarize yourself with our car repair and diagnostic services.