Car · Problems

Burning smell

The smell gives the cause away: burnt friction material for brakes and clutch, hot oil for a leak onto the exhaust, a sweet smell for coolant.

UrgencyModerate
Can I drive?Yes, carefully
Likely causesSticking brake caliper

Likely causes

  1. Sticking brake caliper35%

    One wheel gets unusually hot, the car pulls to one side and there is a burning smell after a drive.

    Garage price: Brake caliper £120 – £320
  2. Worn slipping clutch30%

    Revs climb without the speed following, especially uphill or in 4th and 5th at low revs.

    Garage price: Clutch kit £470 – £1,055
  3. Oil level too low20%
    Garage price: Oil and filter change £70 – £150Fix it: Change your car's engine oil
  4. Low coolant15%
    Garage price: Coolant flush £60 – £155

What you can check yourself

  1. After a drive, hold a hand near each wheel without touching: one much hotter than the others has a sticking brake.

Fault codes often linked

P0010 Intake camshaft actuator circuit (bank 1)P0011 Intake camshaft timing over-advanced (bank 1)P0521 Engine oil pressure sensor range or performanceP0524 Engine oil pressure too lowP0116 Engine coolant temperature range or performanceP0217 Engine over-temperature condition

Frequently asked questions

Burning smell: what causes it?

Likely causes: sticking brake caliper (35%), worn slipping clutch (30%), oil level too low (20%).

Can I drive?

Yes, carefully. Urgency: moderate.

Indicative estimate. MecaScan cannot see your vehicle: always have a diagnosis confirmed by a professional, and never work on brakes, steering or airbags without the skills.