Car trouble · Engine & check-engine light

I smell burning oil

A sharp burning-oil smell, often after driving, usually means oil is dripping onto the hot exhaust.

Get to it this week

A starting point, not a diagnosis. Most parts stores read check-engine codes and test batteries for free.

Likely causes — tick the parts you want

  1. A leaking valve cover gasket

    most likely · Doable with tools and a free afternoon

    How to check: With the engine cool, look at the top edges of the engine for wet, dark oil and grime running down the sides toward the exhaust.

  2. Oil spilled during a recent oil change

    possible · Most people can do this

    How to check: If the smell started right after an oil change and is fading, spilled oil burning off is likely. Look for a loose oil cap or wet spots near the filter.

  3. A leaking oil filter or drain plug

    possible · Doable with tools and a free afternoon

    How to check: Put cardboard under the engine overnight. Fresh drips under the middle of the engine point to the filter or drain plug.

Be careful

If you see smoke coming from under the hood, pull over and shut the engine off. Never get under a car held up only by a jack — set it on jack stands on flat, solid ground and chock the wheels that stay down.

Your car — the counter needs this

If the counter doesn’t have a part, your shopper asks them to order it under your name and messages you the order number. When it comes in, send someone to collect it.

Not quite it?

My check engine light is flashingMy check engine light is onMy oil light is onMy engine idles rough or shakesMy car hesitates when I accelerateMy car is getting worse gas mileage
I smell burning oil — likely causes and the parts · DriverRuns