my Ford Explorer has a burning smell what could it be

Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

high

Severity

3 min read

566 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix burning smell issues in Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Electrical

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
•Allow engine to cool before working on the oil system.

Symptoms

•Burning smell while driving or parked
•Smoke coming from under the hood or near the wheels
•Overheating engine temperature gauge
•Warning lights illuminated on the dashboard
•Unusual noises from the engine compartment

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect engine oil level and condition; check for leaks or contamination.
2
Check coolant levels and inspect the radiator for signs of leaks or damage.
3
Examine the brake components for signs of overheating or burning, especially if the smell is stronger during braking.
4
Inspect the electrical wiring and connectors for signs of melting or damage.
5
Scan for diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) using an OBD-II scanner to identify any underlying issues.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•OBD-II scanner
•Wrench set
•Oil filter wrench
•Drain pan
•Jack
•Jack stands
•Lug wrench
•Funnel
•Multimeter

Parts Required

•Engine oil
•Oil filter
•Coolant
•Brake pads and rotors (if necessary)
•Electrical wiring (if damaged)

Related Faults

Share this solution

Comments

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect engine oil level and condition; check for leaks or contamination.
2
Check coolant levels and inspect the radiator for signs of leaks or damage.
3
Examine the brake components for signs of overheating or burning, especially if the smell is stronger during braking.
4
Inspect the electrical wiring and connectors for signs of melting or damage.
5
Scan for diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) using an OBD-II scanner to identify any underlying issues.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and parts.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is cool.
Disconnect the battery to prevent electrical shorts while working on the vehicle.

2. Inspect and Replace Engine Oil

Tools Required: Wrench set, oil filter wrench, drain pan.
Check the oil dipstick for level and condition; if the oil is dark or gritty, it needs to be changed.
Drain the oil using a drain pan and remove the old oil filter.
Replace with new oil filter and fill with manufacturer-recommended oil type.
Safety Warning: Allow engine to cool before working on the oil system.

3. Check and Refill Coolant

Tools Required: Funnel, coolant.
Inspect the coolant reservoir for low levels; if low, check for leaks in hoses and the radiator.
Refill with the correct coolant type as specified in the owner's manual.
Start the engine and check for leaks again while the engine reaches operating temperature.

4. Brake System Inspection

Tools Required: Jack, jack stands, lug wrench.
Lift the vehicle and remove the wheels to access brake components.
Inspect brake pads, rotors, and calipers for signs of excessive wear or overheating.
Replace any damaged components with OEM or high-quality aftermarket parts.

5. Electrical System Check

Tools Required: Multimeter.
Inspect wiring harnesses and connectors for any signs of wear, melting, or fraying.
Use a multimeter to check for any shorts or poor connections.
Repair or replace damaged wiring as necessary.