Why Does the Car Air Conditioner Smell Like Alcohol?
2 Answers
Here are the reasons why a car air conditioner may emit an alcohol-like odor: 1. Air filter not cleaned for a long time: Due to prolonged lack of cleaning, combined with humid air during rainy seasons, the air filter becomes damp and warm, leading to mold growth and odor production. 2. Ductwork: Outside air flowing through the air conditioning system ducts carries moisture and dust. While most of the moisture and dust are expelled from the vehicle through the air conditioning drain, small amounts of residual moisture in the system can combine with dust from the air. If not cleaned for an extended period, this can also produce odors.
Last week, I also noticed a strong alcohol smell in my car. At first, I thought I might have left something after drinking, but then I realized it was coming from the air vents. It's probably because the air conditioning ducts weren't completely dry after being cleaned with alcohol-based disinfectants, or there might be alcohol residue on the filter. This is quite common, especially if you've used hand sanitizer before driving—the airflow can spread it into the AC system. Additionally, some coolants or cleaning agents contain alcohol, and if they leak, they can mix into the air system. My advice is to turn off the AC, open the windows for a few minutes to ventilate, and then check the cabin air filter. If the smell persists, it's best to visit a professional shop to have the ducts flushed with proper equipment. Avoid DIY fixes to prevent inhaling too much alcohol vapor, which can be harmful. Remember, driving safety comes first—don't overlook these small issues.
