
Typically, odors are only present during the new car period and will naturally dissipate after some ventilation. If the odor persists, it may be caused by a dirty cabin air filter, which requires replacement to resolve the issue. Below are relevant details: 1. When excessive dust accumulates on the car's cabin air filter or heating ducts, it can lead to fungal growth, emitting odors that are released into the car through the air vents. In this case, using an air conditioner cleaner to clean the vents or replacing the cabin air filter can solve the problem. 2. It is generally recommended to replace the cabin air filter every six months. Its main function is to filter impurities in the air, such as dust, odors, and ozone. When cleaning the cabin air filter, ensure to blow compressed air from the reverse side for cleaning, maintaining a distance of about 5 cm from the filter, and hold the air gun at 500 kPa pressure for approximately 2 minutes.

I recently encountered odor issues while driving my Sylphy, which mainly came from several sources. The plastic and glue smell when the car is brand new is quite common and tends to fade after a few months of use. However, if there's a musty smell when the air conditioning is turned on, it's likely due to accumulated dust and bacteria in the evaporator or filter, especially during hot and humid summers when odors thrive. Sometimes, materials in the seats and carpets release odors, particularly when the car is parked in the sun for extended periods. External exhaust fumes leaking into the car could also be a culprit—check if the window seals are aging. I recommend regularly ventilating the car by opening windows or leaving a slight gap when parked, placing an activated charcoal bag inside to absorb odors, and avoiding perfumes that merely mask the problem. While the Sylphy offers spacious interiors, its ventilation system requires maintenance. Odors can affect driving comfort, so timely cleaning is essential.

The unpleasant odor in the Sylphy is usually caused by the air conditioning system. Water accumulation in the pipes leads to mold growth, especially in humid areas when the AC is turned off too quickly after use without proper drying, making it prone to mildew. Aging materials in the car's carpets or trunk mats can also release volatile odors, which worsen over time. External factors like cigarette smoke or food residue seeping into the seats can be difficult to clean thoroughly during car washes. I recommend not turning off the engine immediately after each use; instead, let the AC blow warm air for a minute to dry the pipes. Regularly replacing the AC filter is crucial—at least twice a year—and if the odor becomes strong, take the car to a shop for a thorough cleaning of the evaporator. The Sylphy's ventilation design is quite effective, but neglecting maintenance can lead to many hidden issues. Health should always come first.

The Nissan Sylphy has quite a few odor issues. The main culprit is bacterial growth in the long air conditioning ducts, and cleaning the filter can solve most of it. Damp carpets leading to mold are also common, especially when water accumulates in the trunk during rainy seasons, causing strong odors. The volatile plastic smell in new cars takes time to dissipate—placing some bamboo charcoal bags can speed up the process. Don’t overlook external factors like exhaust fumes or parking near trash bins. I recommend developing good habits: turn on the external air circulation when parked to ventilate the car and avoid eating inside to prevent spills. Odors are not just annoying but also harmful to respiratory health, especially for sensitive children—investing in a car air purifier is worthwhile.


