What to Do If There's a Dead Mouse in the Car Air Conditioner?
2 Answers
When removing it, tools suitable for prying are generally needed. If you don't want to pry, try pressing down; pressing down the side clips can help remove it. The air conditioning vents are close to the central control display and speakers. The air vent panel of this car model has an emergency light button; remember to unplug the connector at the back while removing it. After removal, you can rinse it with water, but make sure to dry it thoroughly before reinstalling.
Last time my car's AC had a dead mouse odor, I took immediate action and fixed it myself. First, I disconnected the power for safety, removed the dashboard panel to locate the AC filter housing, and sure enough, a dead mouse was stuck in the mesh. Using long tweezers, I carefully extracted it to avoid breaking it, then sprayed disinfectant and wiped down the entire duct area. The filter had to be replaced—I opted for a high-efficiency antibacterial one to eliminate lingering odors. To deodorize, I placed activated charcoal packs in the car and ventilated it for a few days until the smell faded. Throughout the process, I wore gloves and a mask to prevent bacterial exposure and avoided damaging the ducts. Afterward, I strengthened prevention: parking with the AC's external circulation vents closed and placing peppermint oil in the garage to repel rodents. This method is cost-effective and efficient but requires patience. Regular maintenance is key—I clean the system every six months to ensure safety. In short, it's doable yourself, but attention to detail is crucial.
