Honda-Tech - Honda Forum Discussion

Honda Accord: Why is There a Burning Smell Coming Out of My Car?

A burning smell in your Honda Accord indicates that there is a mechanical problem. In this article you will learn the possible problems that are causing that burning smell.

By James Karuga - March 16, 2015

This article applies to the Honda Accord (1990-2002).

A burning smell originating from the engine of your Honda Accord can trigger a lot of panic. The reason is because you are unsure if your car is going to burst into flames. When you detect a burning smell, it's best to park your Honda Accord in order to diagnose it, sort out the possible reasons for it, and how it can be addressed to avoid it in the future. This article will help you isolate possible trouble spots in your Accord to find out where the burning smell could be emanating from.

Step 1 – Check the valve cover gasket

The valve cover gasket covers the top of the Accord's engine to prevent oil leaks. Since the engine environment is heated, with time the cover begins to wear out. That results in the engine's oil leaking out. When that happens, the oil will drip onto the engine's hot surface, causing that burning odor. To resolve this problem, you will need to replace the valve cover gasket and seal it properly. If it is not sealed well, the oil will also leak on the spark plugs and cause the burning smell. You will will need to take extreme precaution, so the condition doesn't continue. If the condition continues, the oil can seep from the valve cover gasket and onto the hot exhaust manifold, which can potentially cause an engine fire.

Figure 1. Leaking valve cover gasket.

Pro Tip

A thorough engine inspection for wet spots or burnt oil buildup will help you to isolate the source of the leaks. Some of the places you can inspect are the spark plugs, umbrella seals, oil pan gasket, rings, and valves.

Step 2 – Check the oil pan gasket

The oil pan contains oil that the engine uses for lubrication in order to avoid wear and tear. The pan is sealed with the oil pan gasket on the bottom of the engine. When your oil pan gaskets wears out, oil leaks into the hot exhaust manifold and causes a burning oil smell. Replacing the leaky oil pan gasket will stop this problem, and ensure your Accord's engine is well lubricated. If the engine doesn't have oil, costly engine damages are inevitable. You will detect this burning oil smell when the engine heats up.

Figure 2. Oil buildup on edges of the pan.

Step 3 – Check the VTEC starter solenoid connections

Electrical problems are another cause of a burning smell in a car. If your starter motor wire connections are the problem, there will be shorts and it will result in a burnt smell evidenced by smoke. In most cases, it's normally the wire connections (negative and positive) sticking together that results in the burning smell. This can be fixed by replacing the peeled wire connections in the starter system.

Figure 3. Check your starter motor and wiring.

Step 4 – Check for a leak in the radiator

The radiator has the coolant/antifreeze, which keeps the engine cool. But if the radiator has a leak, there will be insufficient coolant to cool the engine temperature of your car. Coolant leaks will cause the coolant to drip on the hot engine, resulting in the burning smell and a thick white smoke. An engine block running low on coolant is prone to cracking instantly, which is a costly repair. One way to detect a coolant leak is if you smell a sweet, pancake syrup odor. To repair this problem, you will need to replace the radiator.

Figure 4. Pull the radiator cap and check the condition of the coolant.

Step 5 – Check the belts

Various Honda Accord motorists also attribute the burning smell to worn out engine serpentine belts. If they grow old and harden or rub on the engine part, they produce a smell of burning rubber when in motion. If the belts are the cause of the burning smell, then you will need to replace them.

Figure 5. Check your belts and pulleys for obstructions.

Related Discussions