I think my car is about to catch on fire

CANDI1040

MEMBER
2006 TOYOTA CAMRY SOLARA
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
120,000 MILES

My Toyota Solara is giving off a nasty burning smell through the vents everytime I cut the heat on. The smell only comes when the heat is turned on and and the smell is unbearable and it seems to be getting stronger. This morning the battery light came on and this is the first time my car has done that. I had my battery and alternator replaced last year so I hope that the battery isnt going up again. Could there be a belt going bad, will my car catch fire? Can someone tell me what the problem is and is it something that I will need to get fixed right away?

1 Reply

KHLOW2008

MECHANIC
41,814 POSTS

The charge indicator light turning on means the alternator needs to be checked and not the battery is faulty.

As to the smell, it is not possible to determine what is causing it but since it occurs only when the heater is turned on, it could be someting stuck at the heater core. Could be some chemicals from sources such as deodorants.

The charge indicator problem needs to nbe looked into immediately failing which you might finsd yourself stranded somewhere or not able to use the vehicle when you want to.

I don't think the smell would cause the vehicle to catch fire as it is not electrical burning due to short circuiting.