Burning Smell while using Air Conditioner

[gilbenja]

I received the car today everyone! Thank you to all the people in this group for helping me out.

I'm noticing a very strong burning smell coming from the car when I turn on the AC. The AC is blowing cold, but theres a very strong odor. Not sure if I should have the car inspected by ford or if there is something I can check on my own.

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[GrabberBargeCaptain]

Just to be clear, as soon as you turn off the a/c the smell goes away? have you popped the hood when the engine is hot to look for any oil leaks etc?

 

[Skye]

I was getting ready to post when I did a search for references on replacing the cabin filter. One thread from 2020 noted the then fires. And that made me think of the 2025 SoCal fires. Depending on the history of the vehicle, the system might have seen more than its fair share of soot, smoke particles and dirt. Maybe not the main driver of your issues. Just another factor to consider. And sometimes dense traffic.

https://www.google.com/search?q=mus...IKQQ8NMDegQICRAW&biw=1465&bih=742&dpr=2&aic=0

New (to you) car.

We don't know how often the system was used before, or in what way.

- With the vehicle off, hood up, do a general look throughout the engine compartment. Check for fluid leaks, things that could be lying near, on or dripping onto the exhaust, etc. Look at the A/C compressor, follow the hoses, look at the fittings. Do the same underneath the vehicle. You're just looking for anything weird or that doesn't seem right

- With the vehicle idling, up to full temperature, in park and parking brake set, pop the hood again and do a quick check. Determine if you smell anything. Again, just checking the obvious

- Back in the car, cycle through the A/C system. A/C, defrost, heat, fan speed, etc. Just a simple going through features and options, to confirm things are working as expected

If things look good and the systems are otherwise working correctly, try the following:

- Turn the front defrost on, fans up to full blast, and see what comes out of the vents. A/C and defrost systems use different vents and components. Years-old gunk and garbage could be resting in some of the pathways. After the defrost, do the same with A/C: fans, full blast. Do both checks for a minute or more, to see what comes out or if the smell changes

- Give the interior a nice detailing, including the inside of the glass. Pull and vacuum floor mats, carpeting, empty glove box, console and trunk. Check under seats. Vacuum, general purpose cleaner, window cleaner, several clean towels

- Protectants are important, but I wouldn't coat anything at this point. Remove all deodorizers, scents, etc. You want the car clean and unmasked

- Remove, inspect and replace the cabin filter. Regardless of miles or what the service history says, replace it. Factory, plain, unscented filter. Inspect the cavity for any signs of debris, mold or contaminants

That should clear the obvious, set a baseline and possibly offer more tells.

It does not sound like the following is an issue, but I'm including a link discussing the A/C vent tube. Algae can build up in this line over time, block the drain and cause water to stay in the ventilation system and interior. A moldy, skunky smell is often the result. If when using the A/C you see some sweat on the garage floor, odds are good the line is open. If you never see sweat at all, the line could be blocked, causing that water to stay in the interior.

https://www.mustang6g.com/forums/threads/ac-evap-drain-tube.126141/

If all that and other Member suggestions don't alleviate the issue, consider a check at the dealer or trusted independent mechanic. This could confirm everything is working as expected, that nothing mechanical is at fault. If purchased from a dealer or shop, do not return to them; they'll tell you anything.

If after checks, general cleaning, filter replacement and mechanic inspections the smells are still there, you could consider detailing shops. Some outfits specialize in cleaning up from accidents and crime scenes; they're great at removing smells from various fabrics and materials.

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