my Ford Explorer has a burning smell when I drive what does it mean

Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

high

Severity

3 min read

519 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 a burning smell in your 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 the engine to cool completely before inspecting components to avoid burns.

Symptoms

•Burning smell inside or outside the vehicle
•Smoke rising from under the hood or from the tires
•Overheating engine temperature gauge
•Reduced engine performance or power
•Warning lights illuminated on the dashboard

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect for any visible smoke or signs of burning from the engine bay or undercarriage.
2
Check the engine oil level and condition; look for burnt oil odor.
3
Examine brake components for overheating or worn pads, which can emit a burning smell.
4
Scan for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) using an OBD-II scanner.
5
Inspect wiring and electrical components for signs of melting or damage.
6
Check the condition of belts and hoses for wear or burning.

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

•Flashlight
•Socket set
•Pliers
•Jack and jack stands
•Lug wrench
•Torque wrench
•Multimeter
•Electrical tape
•Wire connectors
•OBD-II scanner

Parts Required

•Engine oil (if low)
•Brake pads (if worn)
•Belts and hoses (if damaged)
•Electrical connectors (if damaged)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect for any visible smoke or signs of burning from the engine bay or undercarriage.
2
Check the engine oil level and condition; look for burnt oil odor.
3
Examine brake components for overheating or worn pads, which can emit a burning smell.
4
Scan for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) using an OBD-II scanner.
5
Inspect wiring and electrical components for signs of melting or damage.
6
Check the condition of belts and hoses for wear or burning.

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 ensure safety during inspection.

2. Inspect Engine Components

Sub-steps:
- Open the hood and visually inspect for any signs of leaks, especially oil or coolant.
- Check all belts for fraying or damage and replace if necessary.
- Inspect hoses for cracks or signs of burning and replace if needed.
Tools Required:
- Flashlight
- Socket set
- Pliers

3. Check Brake System

Sub-steps:
- Lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
- Remove the wheels to access the brake assembly.
- Inspect brake pads for wear and replace if they are worn down or overheated.
- Check brake calipers for sticking or leaking fluid.
Tools Required:
- Jack and jack stands
- Lug wrench
- Torque wrench

4. Electrical Inspection

Sub-steps:
- Carefully inspect wiring harnesses for signs of damage or burnt insulation.
- Use a multimeter to check for short circuits or incorrect voltage readings in electrical components.
- Repair or replace any damaged wiring found during inspection.
Tools Required:
- Multimeter
- Electrical tape
- Wire connectors