Burnt oil smell during hard acceleration.

**FordCustSrvc** · 02-03-2012, 10:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dwr4door

35,000 miles. Still stinks!

I will take it back to the dealership (again) as soon as I get a chance...

Quote:

Originally Posted by soloxx

I'm in the early stages of a round-the-country trip. My 2012 LTD AWD has nearly 7,000 miles on the odo. Yesterday, as I sat in traffic in Norfolk, VA, I was nearly forced out of the car by the smell...

Dwr4door & soloxx,

I arranged for you to be called by the end of the day today. Let me know via PM if you’d like me to forward any more details.

Cory

cnsheets · 02-03-2012, 11:35 AM

JV64..... What did you trade in for?

arc40 · 02-04-2012, 10:30 AM

My 2011 XLT also has the burning oil smell upon acceleration. It is quite embarrassing...not to mention it makes you want to gag when it happens. I'm also pretty sure it cannot be healthy... no amount of persuasion on this aspect is going to convince me otherwise. Exhaust fumes are supposed to be outside of the vehicle for a reason. I am amazed that people are basically being told they need to "deal with it" . I think Ford should offer a trade in without a loss if an affected customer chooses to go with a different vehicle. Since it does not seem to be an issue with all customers, it would at least be a opportunity for Ford to save face on an embarassing situation. I am curious to see how long affected drivers put up with this before someone goes to the press.

Dwr4door · 02-04-2012, 01:02 PM

Thanks Cory,

They did call me. They said there is a new replacement "a" pillar part that has been ordered for me. They will also look at the smell issue....again. I hope it works out this time.

I appreciate your assistance.

VinceL · 02-04-2012, 05:01 PM

Even if aerodynamics are at play here, the real issue is why are the engines producing this noxious odor? The only time any of my cars have produced odors from the engine bay is after an oil change, and that goes away after a day or two.

So either the Ex is pulling its own exhaust into the cabin (deadly), or some chemical is burning off the engine and getting pulled into the cabin (possibly very hazardous). Either way, this could very well be a serious health issue depending on the composition of these gases.

I find it difficult to believe that Ford would think that either of the above scenarios was safe, much less normal, but apparently they do. We need to find a way to have these gases/fumes/odors analyzed to determine their toxicity. This could be something far more menacing than a simply offensive smell.

Bill2654 · 02-05-2012, 07:56 AM

If Ford won't do anything about this, file a report with NHSTA (if you're in the states).

http://www.nhtsa.gov/

**FordCustSrvc** · 02-06-2012, 10:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by arc40

My 2011 XLT also has the burning oil smell upon acceleration. It is quite embarrassing...

arc40,

I want to see that this issue is resolved for you, so I’ll forward the details to the Customer Service Manager in your region. I have your Explorer’s VIN from previous messages, so please send a PM with your contact information, mileage, and dealer name/state.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dwr4door

Thanks Cory,

They did call me. They said there is a new replacement "a" pillar part that has been ordered for me. They will also look at the smell issue....again. I hope it works out this time.

I appreciate your assistance.

You’re welcome, Dwr4door. I’m confident the dealer will take care of you.

Cory

LM614 · 02-08-2012, 08:10 AM

I have had this problem from the start. My current mileage is approx 4,500. Recently, i took some ford technicians for the test drive and they were able to detect the smell. However, they said it did not smell like burnt oil/ exhaust fumes.

The test was done with the AC and recycle button on. However, when I did the same test with the recycle button off I could not detect any smell.

This seems to be a new development as I am sure that this was not the case in the beginning.

Any thoughts?

*peterk9* · 02-08-2012, 08:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GWA1

Design issue? If that was true everyone would have a problem (ie. A pillar).
I for one had a smell for the first 500 miles or so and then went away. I assume for me it was the catalytic converter.

I have had my Limited for 11 months and have not experienced that smell nor the 'A' pillar issue (so far).

Peter

**FordCustSrvc** · 02-08-2012, 10:46 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LM614

I have had this problem from the start. My current mileage is approx 4,500. Recently, i took some ford technicians for the test drive and they were able to detect the smell...

I want to see that this is resolved for you, LM614. I have your Explorer’s details from other PMs, so drop a line and I’ll arrange a call from the Customer Service Manager in your area.

Cory

LM614 · 02-14-2012, 07:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LM614

I have had this problem from the start. My current mileage is approx 4,500. Recently, i took some ford technicians for the test drive and they were able to detect the smell. However, they said it did not smell like burnt oil/ exhaust fumes.

The test was done with the AC and recycle button on. However, when I did the same test with the recycle button off I could not detect any smell.

This seems to be a new development as I am sure that this was not the case in the beginning.

Any thoughts?

I have been asked to bring my car into the garage so that they can "look at the filters and the evaporator for any mould inclusion".

Dwr4door · 02-15-2012, 08:33 PM

Okay,

I took my 2011 XLT back to the dealership today. They installed the updated "A" pillars. They also said they found what was causing "the smell".

From what I can gather, Pressure was causing oil to get into one of the air filters (still not quite sure which one) and saturated it, and then dripping onto the exhaust manifold. They said that Ford is working on a fix. they cleaned the housing, replaced the filter and told me to pick it up tomorrow and wait for the fix. This is after 38,000 miles of this.

This is probably the same thing that is going on with the rest of your Explorers, but you should take yours to your dealerships service department and have them take a look at that area. I will post more detailed information tomorrow after I pick it up. Also, I hope the "A" pillar problem is fixed too.

At least I have some kind of answer.

More to come....

Thanks Cory,

Ford customer relations has also been working on this and are fully up to date on the situation.

They are trying.

VinceL · 02-15-2012, 09:14 PM

Interesting.... we look forward to hearing more about this. Thanks for keeping us posted.

Bonnie Lynn · 02-16-2012, 12:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dwr4door

Okay,

I took my 2011 XLT back to the dealership today. They installed the updated "A" pillars. They also said they found what was causing "the smell".

From what I can gather, Pressure was causing oil to get into one of the air filters (still not quite sure which one) and saturated it, and then dripping onto the exhaust manifold. They said that Ford is working on a fix. they cleaned the housing, replaced the filter and told me to pick it up tomorrow and wait for the fix. This is after 38,000 miles of this.

This is probably the same thing that is going on with the rest of your Explorers, but you should take yours to your dealerships service department and have them take a look at that area. I will post more detailed information tomorrow after I pick it up. Also, I hope the "A" pillar problem is fixed too.

At least I have some kind of answer.

More to come....

Thanks Cory,

Ford customer relations has also been working on this and are fully up to date on the situation.

They are trying.

I hope this does indeed fix this smell. Please keep us up-to-date, as I have around 10,200 miles on my 2011 Ex, and it still has this smell, but you've had to deal with this for 38,000 miles. Wow!

Cory, will this be an issue every Ford dealership will be aware of?

**FordCustSrvc** · 02-16-2012, 03:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dwr4door

...Thanks Cory,

Ford customer relations has also been working on this and are fully up to date on the situation...

You’re welcome, Dwr4door. I’m confident they’ll get this worked out for you.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bonnie Lynn

...Cory, will this be an issue every Ford dealership will be aware of?

Yes, Bonnie; the dealer does have resources to find out this information.

Cory

Akmechanic · 02-16-2012, 04:40 PM

My 2012 XLT build date 11/23/2011 had the smell for about 500 miles. I live in AK and after delivery of the Ex we had the 5th coldest January on record, which means long idle times and heater on full blast most of the time. I guessed the smell was solvents evaporating out of the plastic heat ducts etc since it was worse after idling for a period. Then again, at -50, it takes quite a bit of throttle to make it move too... At any rate, just about the time I was going to take it in, it stopped doing it, so then I was very confident it was the solvents in the plastics. I have tried to reproduce it after reading this thread and it's still good to go. Sounds like I was way off. Lol.

Very intersting thread and I hope Bonnie's dealer has the answer for it.

Dwr4door · 02-16-2012, 06:33 PM

Update:

I picked up the xlt today.

The service department said that, yes, oil was leaking from a tube onto the engine air filter and exhaust due to some kind of a problem with the valve cover.

It looks like Ford is working on a fix. Hope it's soon!

On an even better news front, the new upgraded "A" pillars really do work. Yay! The noises are gone.

I hope Ford gets a fix for the leak soon. I'm just glad the ball is finally rolling.

I don't know why this affects some Explorers but not others. I guess it will all come out eventually.

Akmechanic · 02-16-2012, 08:41 PM

Dwr4Door,
Thanks for the update! Out of curiosity (in case I need to look out for mine) what engine do you have?

Dwr4door · 02-16-2012, 10:03 PM

3.5L V6

I think that's the only one other than the Ecoboost.

2011 XLT

Built in July 2011.

38,000 miles already! I know. It's a work vehicle and I cover a lot of ground.

LM614 · 02-23-2012, 07:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dwr4door

Okay,

I took my 2011 XLT back to the dealership today. They installed the updated "A" pillars. They also said they found what was causing "the smell".

From what I can gather, Pressure was causing oil to get into one of the air filters (still not quite sure which one) and saturated it, and then dripping onto the exhaust manifold. They said that Ford is working on a fix. they cleaned the housing, replaced the filter and told me to pick it up tomorrow and wait for the fix. This is after 38,000 miles of this.

This is probably the same thing that is going on with the rest of your Explorers, but you should take yours to your dealerships service department and have them take a look at that area. I will post more detailed information tomorrow after I pick it up. Also, I hope the "A" pillar problem is fixed too.

At least I have some kind of answer.

More to come....

Thanks Cory,

Ford customer relations has also been working on this and are fully up to date on the situation.

They are trying.

I mentioned this to my dealer, he said that all fords have this problem i.e. specs of oil spraying on the filter! I guess the problem is much worse with the Explorer hence the smell.

They are currently looking at my filters and evaporator. Will let you know what they discover.

02-04-2012, 05:01 PM	#145
VinceL Wannabe Elite Explorer Spring, TX 2013 Explorer Limited Join Date: May 2011 Posts: 2,164 Vehicle Specs	Even if aerodynamics are at play here, the real issue is why are the engines producing this noxious odor? The only time any of my cars have produced odors from the engine bay is after an oil change, and that goes away after a day or two. So either the Ex is pulling its own exhaust into the cabin (deadly), or some chemical is burning off the engine and getting pulled into the cabin (possibly very hazardous). Either way, this could very well be a serious health issue depending on the composition of these gases. I find it difficult to believe that Ford would think that either of the above scenarios was safe, much less normal, but apparently they do. We need to find a way to have these gases/fumes/odors analyzed to determine their toxicity. This could be something far more menacing than a simply offensive smell. __________________ We just bought American! She got the 2013 Ex Meet the Gray Ghost HERE Check out the Gray Ghost on Fuelly.com Average Mileage: 21.3 Best Tank: 26.5

02-05-2012, 07:56 AM	#146
Bill2654 Wannabe Elite Explorer 2012 Explorer Join Date: Nov 2011 Posts: 3 Vehicle Specs	Report the problem to NHSTA If Ford won't do anything about this, file a report with NHSTA (if you're in the states). http://www.nhtsa.gov/

02-15-2012, 09:14 PM	#153
VinceL Wannabe Elite Explorer Spring, TX 2013 Explorer Limited Join Date: May 2011 Posts: 2,164 Vehicle Specs	Interesting.... we look forward to hearing more about this. Thanks for keeping us posted. __________________ We just bought American! She got the 2013 Ex Meet the Gray Ghost HERE Check out the Gray Ghost on Fuelly.com Average Mileage: 21.3 Best Tank: 26.5

02-03-2012, 11:35 AM	#142
cnsheets Wannabe Elite Explorer Anaheim, California 11' Explorer Join Date: Sep 2011 Posts: 902 Vehicle Specs	JV64..... What did you trade in for?

02-04-2012, 10:30 AM	#143
arc40 Wannabe Elite Explorer North Carolina Join Date: Oct 2011 Posts: 2 Vehicle Specs	My 2011 XLT also has the burning oil smell upon acceleration. It is quite embarrassing...not to mention it makes you want to gag when it happens. I'm also pretty sure it cannot be healthy... no amount of persuasion on this aspect is going to convince me otherwise. Exhaust fumes are supposed to be outside of the vehicle for a reason. I am amazed that people are basically being told they need to "deal with it" . I think Ford should offer a trade in without a loss if an affected customer chooses to go with a different vehicle. Since it does not seem to be an issue with all customers, it would at least be a opportunity for Ford to save face on an embarassing situation. I am curious to see how long affected drivers put up with this before someone goes to the press.

02-04-2012, 01:02 PM	#144
Dwr4door Wannabe Elite Explorer TX 2011 Explorer Join Date: Sep 2011 Posts: 20 Vehicle Specs	Thanks Cory, They did call me. They said there is a new replacement "a" pillar part that has been ordered for me. They will also look at the smell issue....again. I hope it works out this time. I appreciate your assistance.

02-08-2012, 08:10 AM	#148
LM614 Wannabe Elite Explorer 2011 Ford Explorer, Base Join Date: Aug 2011 Posts: 19 Vehicle Specs	I have had this problem from the start. My current mileage is approx 4,500. Recently, i took some ford technicians for the test drive and they were able to detect the smell. However, they said it did not smell like burnt oil/ exhaust fumes. The test was done with the AC and recycle button on. However, when I did the same test with the recycle button off I could not detect any smell. This seems to be a new development as I am sure that this was not the case in the beginning. Any thoughts?

02-15-2012, 08:33 PM	#152
Dwr4door Wannabe Elite Explorer TX 2011 Explorer Join Date: Sep 2011 Posts: 20 Vehicle Specs	Okay, I took my 2011 XLT back to the dealership today. They installed the updated "A" pillars. They also said they found what was causing "the smell". From what I can gather, Pressure was causing oil to get into one of the air filters (still not quite sure which one) and saturated it, and then dripping onto the exhaust manifold. They said that Ford is working on a fix. they cleaned the housing, replaced the filter and told me to pick it up tomorrow and wait for the fix. This is after 38,000 miles of this. This is probably the same thing that is going on with the rest of your Explorers, but you should take yours to your dealerships service department and have them take a look at that area. I will post more detailed information tomorrow after I pick it up. Also, I hope the "A" pillar problem is fixed too. At least I have some kind of answer. More to come.... Thanks Cory, Ford customer relations has also been working on this and are fully up to date on the situation. They are trying.

02-16-2012, 04:40 PM	#156
Akmechanic Wannabe Elite Explorer Fairbanks, AK 2012 XLT Ex Join Date: Feb 2012 Posts: 57 Vehicle Specs	My 2012 XLT build date 11/23/2011 had the smell for about 500 miles. I live in AK and after delivery of the Ex we had the 5th coldest January on record, which means long idle times and heater on full blast most of the time. I guessed the smell was solvents evaporating out of the plastic heat ducts etc since it was worse after idling for a period. Then again, at -50, it takes quite a bit of throttle to make it move too... At any rate, just about the time I was going to take it in, it stopped doing it, so then I was very confident it was the solvents in the plastics. I have tried to reproduce it after reading this thread and it's still good to go. Sounds like I was way off. Lol. Very intersting thread and I hope Bonnie's dealer has the answer for it.

02-16-2012, 06:33 PM	#157
Dwr4door Wannabe Elite Explorer TX 2011 Explorer Join Date: Sep 2011 Posts: 20 Vehicle Specs	Update: I picked up the xlt today. The service department said that, yes, oil was leaking from a tube onto the engine air filter and exhaust due to some kind of a problem with the valve cover. It looks like Ford is working on a fix. Hope it's soon! On an even better news front, the new upgraded "A" pillars really do work. Yay! The noises are gone. I hope Ford gets a fix for the leak soon. I'm just glad the ball is finally rolling. I don't know why this affects some Explorers but not others. I guess it will all come out eventually.

02-16-2012, 08:41 PM	#158
Akmechanic Wannabe Elite Explorer Fairbanks, AK 2012 XLT Ex Join Date: Feb 2012 Posts: 57 Vehicle Specs	Dwr4Door, Thanks for the update! Out of curiosity (in case I need to look out for mine) what engine do you have?

02-16-2012, 10:03 PM	#159
Dwr4door Wannabe Elite Explorer TX 2011 Explorer Join Date: Sep 2011 Posts: 20 Vehicle Specs	3.5L V6 I think that's the only one other than the Ecoboost. 2011 XLT Built in July 2011. 38,000 miles already! I know. It's a work vehicle and I cover a lot of ground.