What are the methods to remove odors from a new car?
3 Answers
Methods to remove odors from a new car include: 1. Placing fruits with strong adsorption capabilities such as grapefruit peels, pineapples, and lemons; 2. Using white vinegar with disinfecting and cleaning properties inside the car; 3. Utilizing activated charcoal to eliminate odors; 4. Removing protective films inside the car; 5. Opening windows for ventilation; 6. Spraying an appropriate amount of air freshener. Causes of odors inside the car: 1. Overheated wires or short circuits in electrical devices; 2. Dirty air conditioning filters or air ducts; 3. Malfunctioning tires or rubber belts, emitting a burnt rubber smell; 4. Damaged fuel tank or leaks in the fuel supply system; 5. Leakage or shortage of electrolyte; 6. Burnt clutch plates; 7. Extensive use of plastic, rubber, and other materials in the car's interior, which gradually release organic solvents and additives into the cabin.
I just bought a new car, and that plastic smell was giving me a headache. I tried several methods before finding what worked best. The most effective was airing it out daily by opening the windows, especially during the hot midday sun—I’d roll down all windows and the sunroof for at least half an hour to circulate the air. I also bought activated charcoal bags and placed them under the seats and in the trunk, taking them out every few days to sun-dry and refresh their absorption capacity. Avoid masking the smell with perfumes or chemical sprays, as they might worsen discomfort. Whenever possible, park in the shade to prevent heat from accelerating chemical off-gassing. After consistently doing this for a month or two, the odor faded significantly. Regularly wiping interior surfaces with a damp cloth also helps reduce secondary odors caused by bacterial growth. Remember, while new-car smell can be annoying, time is the best remedy—don’t rush it.
The new car smell is actually caused by volatile gases released from interior materials, and solving it requires a step-by-step approach. First, opening windows for ventilation is key—after starting the car, open the windows for a few minutes before turning on the AC to allow air circulation. Activated charcoal is effective at absorbing odors but needs regular replacement; sunlight exposure can restore its effectiveness. Direct sunlight can accelerate odor dissipation, but be cautious not to overexpose to avoid interior aging. Car air purifiers can also help but come at a higher cost. Avoid using chemicals to mask the smell, as this can create bigger risks. With prolonged ventilation, the odor will naturally fade. Frequent ventilation during the first one or two months of owning a new car will lead to noticeable improvement.
