Posted on 8/29/2025
Catching a whiff of something burning after shutting off your vehicle can be unsettling. While it might fade after a few minutes, it’s usually a sign that something isn’t working as it should. A burning smell can point to issues with fluids, brakes, belts, or even wiring. Ignoring the odor could mean allowing a minor issue to escalate into costly repairs or a safety hazard. Common Causes of a Burning Smell After Driving Several systems under your hood and beneath your car can create a burning smell. Some of the most common culprits include: Oil leaks – When oil drips onto hot engine parts, it burns and produces a sharp odor. This usually comes with visible smoke under the hood. Coolant leaks – If coolant lands on a hot engine surface, it gives off a sweet but pungent smell. Leaking coolant also puts your engine at risk of overheating. Brake issues &ndash ... read more