What Causes a Car to Fail to Start with a Burnt Smell?
2 Answers
The reasons for the car failing to start are as follows: 1. Check if the battery voltage is too low: Turn on the headlights and some electrical devices to observe whether the dashboard and interior lighting dim during the startup process. If they noticeably dim, it indicates insufficient battery voltage. 2. Excessive carbon buildup in the intake manifold: Too much carbon deposit on the throttle body or idle speed control valve prevents the engine from achieving the required air-fuel ratio, making the vehicle unable to start. The repeated engagement of the solenoid and starter relay may also produce a clicking sound. 3. Insufficient fuel supply in the fuel system: This issue is similar to excessive carbon buildup in the intake manifold, as both prevent the engine from reaching the necessary air-fuel ratio, resulting in the vehicle's failure to start.
I've experienced this situation before. That time when I tried to start the car but it wouldn't fire up, and I smelled something burning - it really gave me a scare. Later I learned this is usually caused by electrical issues, like a short circuit or overheating connections, where sparks might scorch the plastic insulation. I checked the battery terminals and found one cable was loose, causing overload heating. Fortunately, I replaced it in time before anything serious happened. Now I regularly inspect the wiring, especially before long trips, and I always sniff around the engine bay for unusual odors. My advice is if you encounter this, stop immediately. Don't keep trying to start the car repeatedly as it might worsen the problem. Finally, get it checked at a repair shop - safety first. In short, taking early action can prevent bigger troubles.
