i didn't want to bump any threads because i have noticed a different scenario than many explain...

i don't smell anything when i am shifting at high rpms, but i do notice the smell when the gas is being pushed harder than the rpms are willing to accelerate. Example: being in third/fourth at 2k rpms and pushing it all the way to the floor(i wouldn't do it to this degree) But, the rpms can't simply just jump up- and this is where I experience the smell- when you pass this "threshold" of gas to acceleration capability. But what is this burning smell? my dad has been a mechanic for 40+ years and says he has smelt it a few times and that it definitely is not clutch burning. i have an 06, 40k.. also if i put the ac on recirculate i don't smell it in the car(with the windows up) so does this change anyones mind on what could be the culprit?
the smell isn't a gas or oil smell either

-- this is my scenario because i have tested it a few(3-5) times and it is reproduced

 

Does your 2006 consume oil at all? The rev up engine is known for that and if you're low it could be the issue..

From time to time I've had a similar type of smell in my cars but really only when accelerated fast. Sometimes when someone passes me and steps on the gas I smell something like gas from their car. Ex) I'm driving in the slow lane and a camero passes me and guns it. The smell can be smelt as I'm driving behind them for a couple seconds .

The smell of a burning clutch is strong and distinct. is your clutch slipping at all?

 

No, the clutch isn't slipping(to my knowledge- my dad said clutch is fine) and i am not consuming oil either... Though i do know this is an issue in these motors, and i hope i never have that issue, but i do check my oil monthly. Also, i understand your example, but this is more of a burnt plastic type of smell, but still not completely

The only thing i haven't tried(after researching) is looking at the exhaust for something burning on it, but since it is definitely coming from the engine bay i do not think that will be my problem. We have car lifts though so i will look sometime this week/end

 

First, change your MTF - if you haven't already, then it probably needs changing anyway. Smell the old stuff before you recycle it. Does it smell burnt? The weak point in your situation is the clutch, so logic dictates that your mechanic is wrong. If you really push your car when you drive it, as you state in your post, then there's a strong possibility that your factory clutch has started to crap out.

 

40+ years of owning a successful business, like he wouldn't know about clutches and i dont necessarily push it. maybe once every other week... when i am having fun with some buddies of mine. I will take your advice though and check the fluid. I am pretty sure i had it changed around a year ago, but could be mistaken.

 

I don't know honestly, but from what you're telling me - I advise you not to drive in that manner. You're putting unnecessary stress on the clutch, probably going to wear it out faster that way. If you want the "gas to match the acceleration" or what-ever you called it, downshift.

When my clutch was going out a few thousand miles ago, I noticed it would slip if I "gassed it at 2k RPM," but so long as I downshifted, or applied the gas very gradually, the clutch would hold. Use those gears! Just food for thought.

 

I do! Thanks for the advice though! i only did this trying to figure out the smell. I didn't know that put strain on the clutch, i thought once it was in gear the clutch was no longer engaged so it couldnt affect it in such a way. the only time i hit 2k is accelerating through first

and tips on how to notice a "slip" in the clutch? i don't have bouncing rpms ever or it pop out of gear or anything

 

Yes, that's exactly what I'm saying.

 

I thought your mechanic had 40+ years of owning a successful shop? Shouldn't he have "tips"

 

I can tell you how to test for a slipping clutch. In 2nd or 3rd gear be at 2k rpm, then accelerate i.e. you're foot hard on the accelerator.

If you see only the rpm's go up and not the speed your clutch is shot.

 

nope. he said it's nothing to worry about. i just don't like it. dont act like your so smart, you dont know the problem either.

 

mine definitely does not do that

 

so clutch is good...any ideas on what else the smell could be? is there something that heats up a lot when you pump a lot of gas into the engine(minus the engine itself obviously) when there is this type of load- explained in the op

ps i do talk to him, but he is convinced it is something i should not worry about and doesn't say a lot about the topic except not to worry. there is really no way to explore this issue since it only happens on the road- so taking it to another mechanic would be somewhat pointless

 

If there are no actual problems, leaks or oil issues I wouldn't worry about it.

 

Apparently I'm as smart as a 40+ year mechanic, because he doesn't know the "problem" either. Your words, not mine.

Don't fix things that aren't broken.

 

VQ is just a smelly engine.

After just 10 minutes of hard runs, 120+mph and such....i come back home, park it, and she just stinks....

Its very similar to p^ssy bro....after you beat it up for an hour or so, its gonna smell a bit bro