A burning smell from the engine cover on a 2016 Jeep Wrangler often signals oil leaking onto hot exhaust components. If you notice that the 2016 Jeep Wrangler engine cover is burning, you need to act fast. This issue is common but can lead to serious damage if ignored.
Your Wrangler’s engine bay gets hot. When oil or other fluids drip onto the exhaust manifold, they burn. The smell is unmistakable. You might also see smoke rising from under the hood.
Don’t panic. Most causes are fixable with basic tools. This guide walks you through the reasons, fixes, and prevention tips.
Why The 2016 Jeep Wrangler Engine Cover Is Burning
The engine cover on your 2016 Wrangler is plastic. It sits on top of the engine. Heat from the engine can warp or melt it. But the real problem is usually oil leaks.
Oil seeps from valve cover gaskets, oil filter housings, or the PCV system. It drips onto the exhaust manifold. The manifold gets extremely hot. The oil burns, creating smoke and a strong odor.
Sometimes the cover itself touches a hot surface. This can happen if the cover is loose or cracked. Plastic melting produces a different, acrid smell.
Common Causes Of Burning Smell
Here are the most frequent reasons your engine cover might be burning:
- Valve cover gasket leak
- Oil filter housing crack
- PCV valve or hose failure
- Loose or damaged engine cover
- Exhaust manifold heat shield missing
- Oil spilled during refill
Each cause has a distinct symptom. Let’s break them down.
Valve Cover Gasket Leak
The valve cover gasket seals the top of the engine. Over time, it hardens and cracks. Oil seeps out and runs down the side of the engine. It lands on the exhaust manifold below.
You’ll notice oil residue on the engine block. The smell is strongest after driving. Check the area around the valve cover bolts. If you see oil, the gasket is likely bad.
Oil Filter Housing Crack
The oil filter housing on the 3.6L Pentastar engine is plastic. It can crack from heat cycles. Oil leaks from the housing and drips onto the exhaust.
This is a known issue on 2012-2018 Wranglers. The housing sits near the front of the engine. Look for oil around the oil filter area. A crack might be visible with a flashlight.
PCV System Failure
The PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system routes fumes back into the intake. If the PCV valve or hose clogs, pressure builds. Oil can be forced out of seals.
Check the PCV hose for cracks. Listen for a hissing sound. A bad PCV valve can cause rough idle too.
Loose Or Damaged Engine Cover
The plastic engine cover snaps onto the intake manifold. If a clip breaks, the cover shifts. It can rest against the exhaust manifold or other hot parts.
Inspect the cover for melted spots. Try wiggling it. If it moves easily, clips are broken. Replace the cover or secure it with zip ties temporarily.
Exhaust Manifold Heat Shield Missing
The heat shield protects nearby parts from exhaust heat. If it rusts or falls off, the engine cover gets too hot. This can cause melting or burning.
Look under the vehicle. The heat shield is a metal plate near the exhaust manifold. If missing, order a replacement.
Oil Spilled During Refill
Sometimes the cause is simple. Oil spilled on the engine during a refill. It burns off as the engine heats up. This smell fades after a few minutes.
If the smell goes away quickly, you probably just spilled oil. Clean the engine bay with degreaser to prevent future smells.
How To Diagnose The Burning Smell
Diagnosing the issue saves time and money. Follow these steps:
- Park on level ground and let the engine cool completely.
- Open the hood. Look for smoke or steam.
- Sniff around the engine bay. Pinpoint where the smell is strongest.
- Use a flashlight to check for oil leaks. Focus on the valve covers, oil filter, and exhaust manifold.
- Inspect the engine cover. Look for melted plastic or burn marks.
- Check the oil level. Low oil can cause overheating and leaks.
- Start the engine and watch for smoke. Have someone rev the engine while you look.
If you see oil on the exhaust manifold, that’s your source. Clean it off and monitor where it comes from.
Tools You Might Need
- Flashlight
- Socket set
- Torque wrench
- Oil filter housing tool
- Degreaser
- Shop rags
- New gaskets or seals
Most repairs are DIY-friendly. But if you’re not comfortable, take it to a mechanic.
Fixing The Burning Engine Cover
Repairs depend on the cause. Here are solutions for each issue.
Replace Valve Cover Gasket
This is a common fix. The gasket costs around $20-40. Labor takes 1-2 hours.
- Remove the engine cover. It pulls straight up.
- Disconnect the ignition coils and wiring.
- Remove the valve cover bolts. Note their positions.
- Lift off the valve cover. Clean the mating surface.
- Install the new gasket. Apply a small amount of RTV sealant at corners.
- Reinstall the valve cover. Torque bolts to spec (usually 8-10 ft-lbs).
- Reconnect everything. Start the engine and check for leaks.
Replace Oil Filter Housing
This is trickier. The plastic housing often cracks. A metal aftermarket replacement is better.
- Drain the oil and remove the oil filter.
- Disconnect the coolant lines from the housing.
- Remove the housing bolts. Pull the housing off.
- Clean the mounting surface.
- Install the new housing with new O-rings.
- Refill oil and coolant. Bleed the cooling system.
- Check for leaks after running the engine.
Expect to spend $100-200 for parts. Labor is 2-3 hours if you DIY.
Fix PCV System
Replace the PCV valve and hose. They are cheap and easy to access.
- Locate the PCV valve on the valve cover.
- Pull it out. It might be tight.
- Install the new valve. Push it in until it clicks.
- Replace the hose if cracked. Use a vacuum hose of the same diameter.
- Start the engine. Listen for hissing. Check for leaks.
Secure Or Replace Engine Cover
If the cover is loose, fix the clips. You can buy replacement clips online. Or use zip ties to hold it in place.
If the cover is melted, replace it. A new cover costs $50-100. Aftermarket options are cheaper.
Replace Heat Shield
Order a new heat shield from Jeep or a parts store. It bolts onto the exhaust manifold. Use high-temp bolts to prevent rust.
If the shield is missing, you can also wrap the exhaust manifold with heat tape. This is a temporary fix.
Clean Up Spilled Oil
Use engine degreaser and a brush. Spray it on the affected areas. Let it sit for 5 minutes. Rinse with water. Avoid getting water into electrical connectors.
Dry the engine bay with compressed air or a rag. Start the engine to burn off remaining residue.
Preventing Future Burning Issues
Regular maintenance reduces the risk. Follow these tips:
- Check oil level weekly. Low oil increases engine heat.
- Inspect gaskets and seals every oil change.
- Clean the engine bay annually. Dirt traps heat.
- Use a metal oil filter housing if yours is plastic.
- Replace the PCV valve every 60,000 miles.
- Monitor the engine cover for cracks or warping.
- Address small leaks immediately. They get worse.
Also, avoid aftermarket engine covers that don’t fit properly. Stick with OEM or reputable brands.
When To See A Mechanic
Some repairs are complex. See a mechanic if:
- You smell burning but can’t find the source.
- Smoke is heavy or comes from the dash.
- The check engine light is on.
- You need to replace the oil filter housing.
- You’re not comfortable working on your Jeep.
Burning smells can also indicate electrical issues. If you see sparks or smell plastic burning, stop driving. Tow it to a shop.
Cost Of Repairs
Costs vary by location and parts. Here’s a rough estimate:
- Valve cover gasket: $20-40 parts, $100-200 labor
- Oil filter housing: $100-200 parts, $200-400 labor
- PCV valve: $10-20 parts, $50-100 labor
- Engine cover: $50-100 parts, DIY install
- Heat shield: $30-60 parts, $50-100 labor
DIY saves money. But factor in your time and tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Drive My 2016 Jeep Wrangler If The Engine Cover Is Burning?
It’s not safe. The smell indicates a leak or overheating. Driving could cause a fire or engine damage. Pull over and inspect it.
Why Does My 2016 Wrangler Smell Like Burning Oil?
Oil leaking onto the exhaust manifold is the most common cause. Check the valve cover gasket and oil filter housing first.
Is The Plastic Engine Cover Necessary?
No, but it reduces noise and keeps debris off the engine. You can remove it temporarily. Just secure any loose wiring.
How Do I Stop The Burning Smell From My Jeep Wrangler?
Find and fix the leak. Clean the engine bay. Replace any melted parts. If the smell persists, consult a mechanic.
What Does A Burning Plastic Smell Mean?
Plastic burning usually means the engine cover or a wire harness is touching a hot surface. Check for melted plastic near the exhaust.
Final Thoughts
A burning smell from your 2016 Jeep Wrangler engine cover is a warning. Don’t ignore it. Most causes are easy to fix. Start with a visual inspection. Look for oil leaks and melted plastic.
Replace worn gaskets and seals. Secure loose covers. Clean up spills. Regular maintenance keeps your Wrangler running safe and smell-free.
If you’re unsure, ask a mechanic. A small repair now prevents a big fire later. Your Jeep is tough, but it needs care. Stay on top of issues, and you’ll enjoy many more miles.
Remember, the 2016 Jeep Wrangler engine cover is burning because something is wrong. Fix it today. Your nose knows.