daytonp

I have had my 98 Taurus for about 9 years now. I am brand new to the world of car repair, so I am hoping I can receive some valuable tips from all of you. Last weekend my rear tire blew out on the highway. We noticed a burning rubber smell coming from the back before the tire gave out, and we realized the strut was rubbing against the top of the tire. Is this a strut issue or the spring?