What are the causes of air pollution inside a car?

[RoseMarie]

Sources of air pollution inside a car mainly include the following: 1. The new car itself: The interior of a car is mainly composed of leather, fiber, and various engineering materials, and these materials require the use of harmful substances such as formaldehyde and benzene during production. 2. Car decorations: In the market, car decorations come in various types and materials, with varying quality, and even some 'unbranded' interiors are mixed in. 3. Car air conditioning: For example, when the engine is running, it produces carbon monoxide, gasoline volatiles, nitrogen oxides, etc. 4. Smoking inside the car: If the driver or passengers smoke, it will greatly increase the concentration of pollutants such as volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, and dust. 5. Car washing: When washing the car, if cleaning agents or dry cleaning agents are used inside the car and ventilation is not properly managed afterward, it may cause secondary pollution.

[White]

As a car owner, I often discuss strange odors in the car with my friends. The most common cause is the release of gases like formaldehyde from plastic seats, carpets, and adhesives when the car is new, which can be pungent and cause headaches or allergies over time. Additionally, poor-quality interior materials continuously emit volatile organic compounds. If the car ages, plastic decomposition makes it easier for harmful substances to accumulate. It's recommended to ventilate the car frequently by opening windows when it's new or using activated carbon adsorbents to help purify the air. Don't forget to regularly clean interior surfaces to prevent dust buildup and secondary pollution. Maintaining a healthy environment inside the car is crucial and can significantly reduce these issues.

[SanRose]

Having driven for many years, I've noticed that poor air quality inside the car is often related to daily habits. For example, some people are accustomed to keeping the windows closed and using the air conditioning throughout the journey, which causes external exhaust fumes or pollen to circulate, leading to increasingly higher pollution concentrations. Especially during traffic jams, external particulate matter can seep into the car, affecting respiratory health. In addition, unclean interiors, such as mold or bacteria breeding in the carpets, as well as residues left by smoking inside the car, can exacerbate pollution. Improvement methods include selecting the appropriate external circulation mode while driving, avoiding prolonged parking in high-pollution areas, and regularly washing mats and ventilating the car.

[StevenAnn]

As a parent, I'm concerned about my child inhaling polluted air while in the car. The main sources are factory smoke or traffic exhaust entering through gaps when the car is parked outside. If there's an issue with the AC system, unfiltered dust particles can accumulate. Additionally, older interiors release odorous substances that are harmful with long-term exposure. Maintaining good window seals and regularly checking air filters is essential.