FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Volkswagen/Tiguan/Second Generation (2018-present)/why does my Volkswagen Tiguan have a weird burning smell while driving

why does my Volkswagen Tiguan have a weird burning smell while driving

Volkswagen Tiguan Second Generation (2018-present)

Severity: highDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
580 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 Volkswagen Tiguan. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Component
Engine
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow engine to cool before inspection.
  • ⚠Ensure vehicle is securely supported before working underneath.

Symptoms

  • •Burning smell noticeable during driving
  • •Possible smoke rising from the engine bay or undercarriage
  • •Warning lights illuminated on the dashboard (e.g., oil pressure, battery)
  • •Decreased engine performance or acceleration
  • •Unusual noises from the engine compartment

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Inspect engine oil level and condition using the dipstick.
  2. 2Check for any visible fluid leaks under the vehicle or around the engine.
  3. 3Scan the vehicle’s OBD-II system for any error codes.
  4. 4Visually inspect the engine bay for signs of burnt wiring or components.
  5. 5Examine the brakes for overheating or burning smell due to dragging calipers.
  6. 6Check the condition of the serpentine belt and accessories for signs of wear or damage.

Solution

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 avoid electrical shock.

2. Check Engine Oil and Fluids

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean.
    2. Reinsert the dipstick and remove it again to check the oil level.
    3. If low, top off with the manufacturer-recommended oil type.
  • Tools Required: Oil funnel, appropriate engine oil.
  • Safety Warnings: Allow engine to cool before inspection.

3. Inspect and Repair Wiring

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Visually inspect all wiring harnesses for frayed or damaged insulation.
    2. Repair any damaged wires with electrical tape or replace as necessary.
    3. Ensure all connectors are secure and free of corrosion.
  • Tools Required: Wire cutters, electrical tape, multimeter for testing connections.

4. Check Brakes

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
    2. Remove the wheel to access the brake assembly.
    3. Inspect brake pads for excessive wear and calipers for proper function.
    4. Replace any worn components as necessary.
  • Tools Required: Jack and jack stands, lug wrench, socket set.
  • Safety Warnings: Ensure vehicle is securely supported before working underneath.

5. Inspect Serpentine Belt and Accessories

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Visually inspect the serpentine belt for cracks, fraying, or glazing.
    2. Check all driven accessories (alternator, water pump, etc.) for unusual wear.
    3. Replace the serpentine belt if it shows signs of damage.
  • Tools Required: Socket set, belt tensioner tool.
  • Safety Warnings: Disconnect battery before working on electrical components.

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

  • Oil funnel
  • OBD-II scanner
  • Wire cutters
  • Electrical tape
  • Multimeter for testing connections
  • Jack and jack stands
  • Lug wrench
  • Socket set
  • Belt tensioner tool

Parts Required

  • Engine oil
  • Serpentine belt (if damaged)
  • Brake pads or calipers (if worn)

Additional Information

Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

9 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. how to check if the turbo is working on my Volkswagen Tiguan?

    Learn how to check if the turbo is working on your Volkswagen Tiguan. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Reduced engine power during acceleration
    • •Whistling or hissing sounds from the engine bay
    • +{count} more
  2. my Volkswagen Tiguan makes popping noises when I drive over bumps what's going on

    Learn how to diagnose and fix popping noises in the suspension of your Volkswagen Tiguan. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair ins...

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Popping or clunking noise when driving over bumps
    • •Noise may increase with speed or severity of bumps
    • +{count} more
  3. how to fix my Volkswagen Tiguan's unstable idle when in gear

    Learn how to diagnose and fix unstable idle issues in your Volkswagen Tiguan. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Engine RPM fluctuates while in gear
    • •Rough or choppy idle
    • +{count} more
  4. how to determine if my Volkswagen Tiguan needs a new timing belt

    Learn how to determine if your Volkswagen Tiguan needs a new timing belt. Step-by-step diagnostic and replacement instructions included.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Engine misfires or runs rough
    • +{count} more
  5. why does my Volkswagen Tiguan hesitate when I press the accelerator

    Learn how to diagnose and fix acceleration hesitation in Volkswagen Tiguan. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instruction...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Engine stalling during acceleration
    • •Rough or inconsistent acceleration
    • +{count} more
  6. what causes my Volkswagen Tiguan to stall while driving

    Learn how to diagnose and fix stalling issues in Volkswagen Tiguan. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Engine unexpectedly shuts off while driving
    • •Check engine 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