If I travel any distance, say 10 miles at speed of approx 50 - 60 mph, there's always a burning smell that comes from the rear of my CRV. I think it may be the brakes...any ideas what the problem may be and how to fix it?

Hi Colin,

I had my 2004 CR-V at the dealer today asking about that same issue (among others). The mechanic there said that the issue was a build-up of salt and debris on the exhaust that is burning off. Apparently, the anti-rusting agent that they use is affected by the road debris. Here in Vermont we have been in winter for months, and according to him, people come in this time of year in numbers complaining about this exact issue.

He had taken a close look at the calipers and couldn't find anything wrong. Pad wear was OK. Caliper was not seized or sticking. The brakes were replaced when I got the car last October. I looked at the calipers/rotors myself at home a few weeks ago and couldn't find anything either.

I have seen another forum where people have had this issue and got the same response from Honda and it's dealers. However, many people said that they experienced this in dryer, warmer climates as well. One guy said it happened when his was towed behind a motor home, so it couldn't be a heat-related exhaust issue as such. Another said he had a slow oil drip leak from his oil filter that was running down the exhaust pipe, burning when he drove.

All in all, the answer from Honda on this is pretty bogus if you ask me. I plan to clean out the entire exhaust undercarriage area soon and see if that helps, but I have my doubts. It may be the exhaust mounts too, if they're made out of cheap rubber.

How does you CR-V handle tight cornering? Do you hear a scrubbing noise as if the tires are not rolling freely on the road surface? If so, you may need to have the rear differential fluid flushed (at least a couple/few times) and replaced with the Honda Dual Pump fluid I or II. There is a small valve at the top of the differential case that I have heard can be compromised during inclement weather and contaminate the differential fluid. This could cause the rear differential plates to uneccessarily rub as they engage, possibly creating a burning smell; much like slipping a manual clutch. Ask the dealer or your local shop Honda guy about this and they should know what you're talking about. The rear differential fluid should be flushed every 20,000 miles or so anyways. I may do this as well just to be safe.

Hope this sheds some light.

Check these out too:

http://www.hondasuv.com/members/showthread.php?t=309

http://www.automotiveforums.com/t175126.html


Cheers,

NEK

Thanks for the very detailed explanation. I have a similar problem with my CRV, and I'll make sure to try your suggestions.

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