Thread: Burning smell from engine but no smoke?

Originally Posted by FordMan77

What does it smell like? Oil? Coolant (sweet smell)? Does it seem to smell after you brake/come to a stop quickly?

I'd be willing to bet that the valve covers are leaking oil (especially the front) and is being burned off by the manifolds. Look under the front valve cover where the plug wire guide is and see if it looks wet/black. If so, then the cover is leaking.

If you replace both valve covers then be sure to install new grommets as well. Fel-Pro sells a good set of gaskets/grommets for this.

I agree...my car was recalled for that exact reason. I didnt have any leaks but there were apparently enough out there that did, for them to send out a recall.