Ford Fiesta oil and coolant leak with toxic smell from engine after valve cover gasket and water hose replacement on Ford Fiesta

Submitted by Vehicle Owner · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Ford Fiesta owners report experiencing issues with oil and coolant leaks, accompanied by a toxic smell from the engine after replacing the valve cover gasket and water hose. These problems may stem from oil leaking onto the exhaust system, resulting in a burning oil smell as it vaporizes during operation. Additionally, owners have noted that a leaking valve cover gasket, worn valve seals, or a blown head gasket could be contributing to the oil leak, leading to further unpleasant odors. Some owners also report coolant leaks, which can be indicated by a decreasing coolant level despite pressure tests showing no issues. In cases where the engine is burning oil without visible leaks, internal problems such as a leaking head gasket or oil mixing with coolant may be the cause. Given that these issues persist after recent repairs, it is recommended that owners seek a thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic to identify and resolve the sources of the leaks to prevent further damage and ensure safe vehicle operation.

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Ford Fiesta vehicles with this problem

1 model year affected
Average mileage: 18,000 miles
(18,000 - 18,000)

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