How to deal with odor in Skoda Octavia?
3 Answers
Here are the solutions for odor in Skoda Octavia: 1. Fruit peel deodorizing: Try to use grapefruit peel or orange peel when operating. They not only have strong adsorption capacity but also emit fruity fragrance, which can act as perfume, improving the air quality while removing odors. 2. Vegetable deodorizing method: Tear-inducing onions are also highly effective against car odors. Cut a few slices of onion and put them in a water basin, stir and place them in the new car to remove odors. 3. Vinegar to remove car odors: Vinegar can not only kill bacteria and viruses suspended in the car air but also stabilize formaldehyde in the car and neutralize the alkaline components in cigarettes, suitable for new cars and cars with heavy smoke and alcohol odors. 4. Place charcoal bags: Many car owners choose to place some activated carbon or bamboo charcoal bags in the car. Bamboo charcoal has the effect of absorbing formaldehyde and is small in size, convenient for placement. Car owners can place the charcoal bags anywhere in the car according to their needs, but the plastic packaging of new charcoal bags must be removed in time, otherwise it will affect the efficacy.
A couple of days ago, I noticed a strange smell in my Octavia, similar to the musty odor of rotten leaves or damp soil. I suspect it's mold growing in the AC system, especially since the cabin air filter hasn't been changed for a long time and has accumulated dust. To fix it, I first picked a sunny day, rolled down all the windows, and ventilated the car for half an hour to let fresh air in and drive out the musty smell. Then, I replaced the old cabin air filter with a new one—it only costs a few dozen yuan online, and it's easy to install by just unscrewing the glove compartment. I also used a specialized AC cleaner spray on the air vents, then turned on the fan to dry it out, which helps kill bacteria and eliminate odors. I didn’t overlook the seats and carpets either—I vacuumed up debris and then sprayed them with disinfectant. Later, I realized this issue often arises from leaving damp items in the car, so I’ve made it a habit to turn off the AC but keep the fan running for 10 minutes before parking to dry out the ducts. Also, I avoid leaving food scraps in the car to keep the interior air fresh.
When detecting odors in my Octavia, I first identify potential sources such as mold growth in the AC system, carpets, or interior materials. My approach involves parking the vehicle in a well-ventilated outdoor area and opening all doors to facilitate air circulation. Replacing the cabin air filter—the most common odor source—comes next. For AC cleaning, I use a homemade tool: spraying disinfectant into air intakes while running the fan to distribute the solution for sterilization. Checking floor mats for moisture is crucial; if wet, remove and sun-dry them to prevent mold. Preventively, regular window ventilation is essential—avoid smoking or consuming crumbly foods inside. For persistent odors, an affordable ozone generator effectively sanitizes the cabin when operated for several hours. Remember, this issue impacts respiratory health, especially in hot weather when bacteria proliferate—timely action ensures safety.
