What to Do When There's a Dead Mouse Smell in the Car but the Cause Can't Be Found?
2 Answers
First, check if the air conditioning filter is too dirty. If it is, it needs to be replaced. Then, inspect the engine compartment to see if there are any dead mice. If there is a foul smell when the air conditioning is turned on, check the air intake vent to see if a mouse has crawled in. Methods to remove odors from the car: 1. Ventilate frequently by opening the windows: Regularly open the windows to let fresh air in. After getting into the car, open the windows and turn on the fan to circulate air for at least 10 minutes before closing the windows and turning on the air conditioning. 2. Use bamboo charcoal bags to absorb odors: Bamboo charcoal bags can be somewhat effective, but they need to be replaced promptly. Typically, a bamboo charcoal bag should not be used for more than 15 days, as it can become a new source of pollution. 3. Place fruits to neutralize odors: You can place fruits like bananas or pineapples in the car to help with odors, but make sure to place them in a spot away from direct sunlight. Also, keep an eye on them to prevent leakage or spoilage.
I encountered the same situation last time, the smell was particularly foul, as if a dead mouse was hiding in the car. I think the first step is to thoroughly search the entire cabin, especially under the seats, in the corners of the trunk, and beneath the dashboard—these are places where animals tend to hide. The air conditioning system is often overlooked; take out the cabin air filter and check, as sometimes dead mice can get stuck in the ducts, and the odor gets blown in with the air. I cleaned the filter and also sprayed some deodorizer, which helped a lot. Another point is to check if there are any holes in the window seals, as small animals can squeeze in through there. Prevention is simple: close the windows when parking, and don’t leave food in the car to attract them.