What Causes Severe Odor Inside the Car?
3 Answers
Severe odor inside the car is caused by the following reasons: Decorative materials: A large amount of plastic, rubber, and other materials are used in car interiors. The organic solvents and additives in these materials gradually release into the car environment during use. This is one of the main causes of car odor, especially in new cars. Odor caused by the air conditioning filter: Many car owners report that when the air conditioning is turned on, a sour and musty smell blows in, which is very unpleasant, but this condition usually eases after a while. In fact, this odor is a sign that the air conditioning filter needs to be replaced, as the air conditioning has been decomposed by bacteria, leading to mold. Replacing the air conditioning filter can alleviate the odor. Odor caused by the evaporator: If the odor persists after replacing the air conditioning filter, the issue likely points to the evaporator. This is because the evaporator has become moldy, and replacing the air conditioning filter won't solve the problem. In this case, cleaning the evaporator and the air conditioning ducts is necessary. Different habits: Everyone's habits are not only reflected in driving but also in car usage. Differences in car usage can also cause odors inside the car, such as eating or smoking in the car, which can lead to odors over time.
I've found that severe odors inside a car often stem from several common sources, with the air conditioning system being a key culprit. Especially in summer after using the AC, condensed water accumulates in the evaporator box, leading to mold growth. When you turn on the cold air, this releases a foul smell which can be quite bothersome. Other causes include spilled drinks or food residues on seats that weren't cleaned promptly and consequently rotted. Pet hair or urine left in the car also poses a significant problem as these odors are particularly stubborn. I've also noticed that new cars emit chemical smells from plastic and leather components, which typically dissipate after a few days of ventilation but may persist for months if unaddressed. Cigarette smoke is another tenacious offender, especially secondhand smoke residue embedded in fabrics. For solutions, regularly cleaning the AC filter is a good practice, or using professional odor-eliminating sprays. It's also important to prevent any water accumulation areas in the car to avoid mold formation.
I've dealt with numerous car odor issues, and based on experience, most cases stem from poorly maintained air conditioning systems where accumulated dirt breeds bacteria, emitting a musty smell upon startup. Another common cause is when seafood or wet items stored in the trunk leak fluids, allowing odors to permeate the cabin over time. Aging and cracked interior materials in older vehicles releasing unpleasant gases is also a frequent culprit. Some people don't thoroughly dry their carpets after tire changes, leading to mold growth that exacerbates the problem. I've noticed that coolant leaks produce a distinct sweet odor, different from normal smells, making it easy to overlook. I recommend checking the AC ventilation system during regular maintenance to keep it dry, which significantly reduces odors. Always ensure car covers are completely dry before storage to prevent musty buildup.
