Burning Smell from Car Engine

This usually indicates a fluid leak of some sort. Your car fluids leak out and drip onto components of your engine which then causes it to burn – hence the burning smell.

Inspection and Diagnosis Cost: Minimal

However, it could also be a sign of an engine accessory starting to go bad, like the alternator. If an engine accessory is wearing out, you will typically have other symptoms showing.

Inspection and Diagnosis Cost: Medium