2003 Chevy Monte Carlo 1st burning smell, now check engine

My Monte Carlo started with a "burning" smell a couple of months ago. At first I thought I'd ran over something plastic and a piece of it had stuck to the engine somewhere. Well, the smell never has completely gone away but seemed not to be as strong. (The smell seems to be coming f/ the right side of the engine near the middle). Anyway, now my check engine light is on.

Last time I had my oil changed (1,000 miles ago, mid Jan.) I was told my trans fluid should be changed. Its never been changed as far as I know. Then he told me that sometimes this would cause the trans to go out. So I decieded to wait it out. I've noticed that when I'm speeding up quickly my car seems to "skip". It will not go from 30 mph to 50-60mph quickly without "skipping" anymore. I've also had some issues w/ my Traction Control Sys. When backing up and turning I hear a grinding noise and my Traction Active light comes on. The noise goes away quickly and then the light goes off not too long after that.

Any ideas on what this burning smell could be? I'm guessing that it has something to do with the check engine light being on. I would greatly appreicate any advice. I would like to have some idea what I'm dealing with before I go to the shop.

Thanks in advance,
April