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Home/Cars/Honda/CR-V/Fifth Generation (2017-2022)/why does my Honda CR-V Sixth Generation (2023-present) have a burning smell when driving

why does my Honda CR-V Sixth Generation (2023-present) have a burning smell when driving

Honda CR-V Fifth Generation (2017-2022)

Severity: highDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
505 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 burning smell issues in Honda CR-V Sixth Generation. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and solutions.

Component
Engine
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before opening the radiator or working near hot components.

Symptoms

  • •Burning smell, potentially resembling burning oil or plastic
  • •Smoke visible from under the hood or around the wheels
  • •Unusual noises from the engine compartment
  • •Warning lights illuminated on the dashboard
  • •Overheating engine temperature gauge

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Inspect the engine bay for any visible fluid leaks or burnt components.
  2. 2Check the oil level and condition using the dipstick.
  3. 3Scan the vehicle's onboard diagnostics with an OBD-II scanner for any error codes.
  4. 4Examine the brake system for signs of overheating or excessive wear.
  5. 5Inspect the transmission fluid level and condition, particularly if the smell is coming from the transmission area.
  6. 6Check for any foreign objects caught near hot engine components.

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 for safety.

2. Inspect and Clean

  • Oil Check
    • Remove the oil dipstick, wipe it clean, and reinsert to check the level.
    • If oil is low, top up with the manufacturer-recommended oil type.
  • Brake Inspection
    • Remove the wheel covers (if applicable) and inspect brake pads and rotors for wear.
    • Replace any worn brake components with OEM parts.

3. Addressing Fluid Issues

  • Transmission Fluid
    • Remove the transmission dipstick and check the fluid level and condition.
    • If the fluid is low or burnt, drain and replace it with the correct type of transmission fluid.
  • Coolant Check
    • Inspect coolant levels in the reservoir and radiator.
    • Top off with manufacturer-recommended coolant if low.

4. Clear Foreign Objects

  • Inspect the engine bay for any debris or foreign objects that may be in contact with hot engine parts.
  • Remove any identified objects to prevent burning.

5. Reconnect Battery and Test

  • Reconnect the battery.
  • Start the vehicle and allow it to reach operating temperature while monitoring for any smells or anomalies.

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

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Oil change tools (filter wrench, drain pan)

Parts Required

  • Engine oil (manufacturer-recommended type)
  • Brake pads (if required)
  • Transmission fluid (manufacturer-recommended type)
  • Coolant (manufacturer-recommended type)

Additional Information

Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

4 items

Parts

4 items

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