Can anyone HELP? I just bought a used 2006 Outlander. When shut off after driving for more than a few minutes, the engine makes crackling sounds. Not ticking, pinging, or rattling. More like metal crackling as it cools down after being overheated. Like popcorn popping. Is this normal? And at times the exhaust smells bad, not like rotten eggs, just very strong.
The sound is there before shut off, but very noticeable when motor is turned off. Now that it is getting cooler outside, the sound seems less loud.

 

Thank you for your reply. I have not really used the AC much. I took it to the dealer's mechanic who said it's the heat shields expanding and contracting and that it's nothing to worry about. I sure hope he's right and it's not indicative of the engine getting too hot. It's very loud in warm to hot temps.

 

Very good chance it is the heat shields, I have a 2011 spyder gt with less than 1000 miles on it and it does the same thing, I am going to try under car barrier and see it that will cut down on that noise, I doubt it will be from ac as you would hear some form of whine noise or wistle if the ac was an issue, nice thing with ac is it gives you warning before it goes out, unless you blow through or puncture condensor. You should be alright.