FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Toyota/RAV4/XA40 (2013-2018)/why does my Toyota RAV4 XA40 (2013-2018) have a strong smell of burning oil

why does my Toyota RAV4 XA40 (2013-2018) have a strong smell of burning oil

Toyota RAV4 XA40 (2013-2018)

Severity: highDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
521 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

Discover how to diagnose and fix a burning oil smell in your Toyota RAV4 XA40 (2013-2018). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Component
Engine
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on any electrical components.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before opening the oil filler cap or drain plug.

Symptoms

  • •Strong burning oil odor inside or outside the vehicle
  • •Visible oil spots or puddles under the car
  • •Decreased oil level on dipstick
  • •Engine overheating warning light illuminated
  • •Blue smoke from the exhaust during acceleration

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Inspect the engine bay for oil leaks using a flashlight.
  2. 2Check the oil level on the dipstick and add oil if necessary.
  3. 3Examine the oil filter and drain plug for signs of leakage.
  4. 4Inspect gaskets and seals around the engine for wear or damage.
  5. 5Run the engine and monitor for smoke or unusual noises.
  6. 6Scan for any error codes using an OBD-II scanner.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Tools Required: Engine oil, oil filter wrench, socket set, clean rags, oil catch pan, torque wrench.
  • Disconnect the battery to prevent electrical shorts.
  • Allow the engine to cool completely before starting work.

2. Identify and Repair Leaks

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Clean the engine area with a degreaser to remove old oil residue.
    2. Visually inspect for leaks starting from the top of the engine and working downwards.
    3. Replace any faulty gaskets, seals, or the oil filter that show signs of damage or wear.
    4. Tighten the oil drain plug to the specified torque (typically 25-30 ft-lbs).

3. Replace Engine Oil and Filter

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Place an oil catch pan under the oil pan.
    2. Remove the oil drain plug and allow the old oil to drain completely.
    3. Replace the oil filter using an oil filter wrench, ensuring the rubber gasket is removed with the old filter.
    4. Install the new oil filter and tighten it according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
    5. Reinstall the drain plug and pour in the recommended oil type (typically 0W-20 or 5W-30, depending on the engine).

4. Final Inspection

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes.
    2. Check under the vehicle for any new oil leaks.
    3. Monitor the oil pressure gauge and ensure it operates within normal ranges.

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

  • Engine oil
  • Oil filter wrench
  • Socket set
  • Clean rags
  • Oil catch pan
  • Torque wrench
  • OBD-II scanner

Parts Required

  • Engine oil
  • Oil filter
  • Gaskets/seals (if needed)

Additional Information

Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

7 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. how to identify CVT issues in my Toyota RAV4 XA40 (2013-2018)

    Identify and resolve CVT issues in your 2013-2018 Toyota RAV4 XA40. Follow our detailed diagnostic steps and repair instructions for effective solutio...

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Slipping or hesitation during acceleration
    • +{count} more
  2. how to fix the door lock malfunction in my Toyota RAV4 XA40 (2013-2018)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix door lock malfunction in Toyota RAV4 XA40 (2013-2018). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instruct...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Door locks do not respond to the key fob
    • •Manual locking/unlocking is inconsistent or ineffective
    • +{count} more
  3. why does my Toyota RAV4 XA40 (2013-2018) shake when I drive

    Learn how to diagnose and fix shaking issues in Toyota RAV4 XA40 (2013-2018). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Vibrations felt through the steering wheel or chassis
    • •Shaking increases with acceleration
    • +{count} more
  4. my Toyota RAV4 XA40 (2013-2018) won't shift into gear what could be wrong

    Learn how to diagnose and fix transmission issues in Toyota RAV4 XA40 (2013-2018). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair inst...

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Difficulty shifting gears
    • +{count} more
  5. how to clear a P0001 code in Toyota RAV4 XA40 (2013-2018)

    P0001

    Learn how to diagnose and fix P0001 fuel volume regulator issues in Toyota RAV4 (2013-2018). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair ...

    Component:Fuel System
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Engine stalling or poor acceleration
    • +{count} more
  6. my Toyota RAV4 XA40 (2013-2018) is leaking oil, what should I do?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix oil leaks in your 2013-2018 Toyota RAV4 XA40. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instruction...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Visible oil spots under the vehicle
    • •Oil level warning light illuminated
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation