What Causes Strong Odors in Cars?

2 Answers
JakeFitz
08/29/25 4:53am
Strong odors in cars can be caused by overheating wires or short circuits in electrical components; unclean air filters or air ducts. Additional details are as follows: Methods to handle strong odors in cars: Place fruits with strong adsorption capabilities like grapefruit peels, pineapples, and lemons inside the car; use white vinegar, which has sterilizing and cleaning properties; utilize activated charcoal to remove odors; remove protective films inside the car; open windows for ventilation; spray an appropriate amount of air freshener, etc. Cleaning the air filter: A dirty air filter can obstruct the entry of fresh air into the cylinder, leading to overly rich air mixtures and excessive exhaust emissions. Modern air filters generally use paper filter elements. When cleaning, avoid using water or oil; instead, employ gentle tapping or blowing methods.
Was this review help?
17
5
Share
Toni
09/11/25 2:41am
When it comes to strong odors in cars, I've noticed many people overlook the importance of regular cleaning and maintenance. The most common issue is mold growth in the air conditioning system, especially when condensed water doesn't dry completely after using the AC in summer, leading to bacterial growth and musty smells. Pet urine stains or leftover fur can also cause unpleasant odors – last time my dog peed in the car and I didn't clean it immediately, the smell was absolutely suffocating. Wet carpets or food crumbs can lead to mildew, creating a rotting smell. New car owners might encounter VOCs released from plastics and adhesives, which can linger for months with poor ventilation. I recommend regularly cleaning the AC filter, wiping interior surfaces with professional cleaners, and developing the habit of airing out the car. If the odor comes from the engine compartment, like an oil leak, get it checked immediately – safety first. Try to avoid eating or smoking in the car, and don't slack on trash removal.
Was this review help?
6
1
Share
Expand All
More Forum Discussions

Where is the maintenance light reset button for the 2020 Lavida Plus?

2020 Lavida Plus maintenance light reset button is located on the left side of the instrument panel, press and hold to reset the maintenance light. Here is the relevant introduction about car maintenance light: Function: The maintenance light records the mileage of important components, similar to a timer in a sprint race, serving as a reminder for car owners and maintenance personnel. Note: If the car owner replaces related parts but does not reset the maintenance light, it will automatically reset the corresponding maintenance light. If the owner replaces related parts without resetting, it will not affect the vehicle's performance but may cause trouble for the next replacement: unable to accurately track the usage time of new parts.
5
0
Share

How to Activate the Auto Hold Function in Audi A4?

Audi A4's auto hold function can be used as follows: 1. The A button is for auto hold. After pressing it, brake when in D gear. 2. When a green P appears on the display, you can release your foot, and the car will not move even in D gear. 3. To start driving, simply press the accelerator. More information about auto hold: 1. Auto hold refers to an automatic braking function. After activating this function, for example, when stopping at a traffic light, there is no need to pull the handbrake. 2. The auto hold function simplifies operation by avoiding the use of handbrake or electronic handbrake, and automatic transmission models do not need to frequently switch between D to N or D to P.
2
4
Share

What does the API of engine oil represent?

The API grade of engine oil refers to the quality standard specified for engine oil. Below is relevant information: 1. The first letter of the specification for engine oil used in gasoline engines is "S", with a total of 12 grades from SA to SN. The first letter of the specification for engine oil used in diesel engines is "C". If the engine oil label is "SC", it indicates that the oil is universal, meaning it can be used in both gasoline and diesel engines. 2. Taking gasoline engines as an example, the engine oil grades used in gasoline engines, from low to high, are SE, SF, SG, SH, SJ, SL, SM, and SN. As of August 2019, most of the engine oils used in cars in China were SJ, SL, SM, and SN.
4
1
Share

What Are the Reasons for a Car Consuming Too Much Fuel?

There are three main reasons why a car consumes too much fuel: 1. Personal factors, the driver's lack of skill: Improper gear shifting and excessive braking during driving artificially increase engine power loss. Additionally, excessive braking leads to more frequent starts, and starting consumes higher fuel rates; 2. The engine's condition is directly related to fuel consumption: If the engine has issues, fuel consumption will significantly increase. High idle speed adjustment, partial short circuits in the high-voltage coil, burnt distributor contacts, or capacitor breakdown can result in weak high-voltage sparks, reduced ignition capability, and incomplete combustion of some fuel mixtures, all of which increase fuel consumption; 3. Neglecting maintenance during car use: Not using fuel additives regularly.
11
4
Share

Which one to choose between Trumpchi M8 and Maxus G20 Plus?

If you prefer powerful performance, you can opt for the Maxus G20 Plus; if you favor an MPV, then the Trumpchi M8 would be the better choice, depending mainly on the consumer's personal preference. Below are the relevant introductions of the Trumpchi M8 and Maxus G20 Plus: Power: The Trumpchi M8 is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, featuring DCVVT technology and direct fuel injection technology; the Maxus G20 Plus offers a dual powertrain combination of gasoline and diesel, providing a more diverse range of power options. Exterior: The Trumpchi M8 is a mid-to-large-sized MPV under GAC Motor, while the Maxus G20 Plus has upgraded its family-style "Intelligence Gathering" design language, with a large octagonal front grille that looks very imposing.
14
4
Share

What Causes the Engine to Make a Buzzing Sound?

Reasons for engine buzzing sound: 1. Buzzing sound at idle: This may be caused by the operation of the electronic fan used for radiator cooling. However, this sound is intermittent. If the buzzing persists, it could indicate a faulty temperature sensor or temperature regulator. 2. Buzzing sound during low-speed driving or gear shifting: This is usually caused by excessive clearance between the piston and cylinder wall. Improper installation leading to overly tight assembly or abnormal wear can also produce buzzing sounds. 3. Buzzing sound during high-speed driving: This may be caused by sound resonance. During high-speed operation, using incorrect engine oil can also lead to this phenomenon. Improper oil selection prevents adequate lubrication inside the engine, potentially causing buzzing sounds. Alternatively, water pump abnormalities such as blockages or leaks can also result in engine buzzing issues.
1
4
Share
Cookie
Cookie Settings
© 2025 Servanan International Pte. Ltd.