I just drove back from San Francisco to Los Angeles last night, and upon arrival I opened my hood to discover that a light smoke, along with a faint smell of some sort of chemical burning, was present. Anybody know why or any similiar experiences?

 

Once I used engine cleaner/degreaser/shiner at a coin wash and I had to pull over because of the smoke coming off my engine...Might be that. I guess the chemical isn't supposed to be heated that much...which is stupid since its' going on an ENGINE...

Peace,
Nima

 

Well, if you really want to know where the smoke is coming from, try gripping the fan while the engine is running (use an oven mit or rag or heavy gloves if you have delicate fingers) so the air no longer blows the smoke around. This will allow you to see which side of the engine/where the smoke is rising from. It could be auto tranny fluid dripping onto your exhaust heat shields like it does in mine. It could be anything (even burning coolant).