Why Does My Car Smell Like Burning?

If you smell burning coming from your car, then you should have your vehicle looked at as soon as possible.

Anything from an overheating clutch to an oil or coolant leak could be to blame.

The type of burning smell will vary depending on the exact cause of the issue. Here are a few common ones to look out for, as well as what may be causing them.

A Burning Rubber Smell

If your car smells like burning rubber, this could relate to any of the following issues:

• An overheating clutch
• Debris in the engine
• Leaking coolant
• Leaking engine oil
• A damaged drive belt or rubber hose
• Electrical issues
• Damaged, misaligned or over-inflated tyres

A Burning Oil Smell

Worn brake pads – or new brake pads that are still to be used – can cause a burning plastic smell.

Your car may also smell like burning plastic if a loose part in the engine is being subjected to excessive heat.

What Should I Do if My Car Smells Like Burning?

You should never ignore a burning smell as it could indicate a serious problem - and you risk a breakdown or expensive repair by doing so. Make sure you book an appointment at our local garage as soon as you notice a problem.

Our accomplished team of expert technicians will be able to find the source of the burning smell and provide an effective solution for you. Don’t hesitate to contact us today to secure your appointment.