Why is there a bad smell inside the car?
3 Answers
Reasons for bad smells inside a car are as follows: Odors from items in the car: For example, smoking, eating, or placing unclean items inside the car can produce odors. In such cases, simply opening the windows for ventilation in time can help. New car odor: When the car is newly manufactured, the plastic panels or rubber seals inside may contain substances like formaldehyde that have not yet dissipated, causing a certain odor. This is normal and will disappear after driving for a while. Air conditioning odor: If the air conditioning filter is not cleaned for a long time, bacteria and dirt can accumulate. When air passes through these contaminants and circulates inside the car, it produces an odor. In this case, simply cleaning the air conditioning filter can resolve the issue.
I used to often encounter unpleasant odors in my car while driving, which felt like a musty or rotten smell, making it uncomfortable. The most common cause is mold in the air conditioning system. In summer, water accumulation on the evaporator after using the AC can easily breed bacteria, releasing odors when the air blows. Another reason is food debris, like bread crumbs or fruit peels, falling into seat crevices and rotting over time, producing foul smells. Cigarette smoke lingering on the interior is also stubborn and hard to wash away. Additionally, pet hair or urine stains left untreated can spread odors. I recommend ventilating the car by opening windows after parking, regularly cleaning the AC filter and carpets, and using deodorizing sprays. Prolonged exposure to such odors is bad for the respiratory system, so it's best to have a professional disinfection service to prevent the problem from worsening.
To tackle odors inside the car, start with regular maintenance. First, check if the cabin air filter is dirty—replace it if necessary to prevent musty smells. Lift the floor mats to inspect for accumulated water or food debris, and vacuum thoroughly. Use a professional cleaner to spray the AC evaporator for sterilization and odor removal. Interior materials like leather seats or plastics may release chemical odors under high temperatures, so ventilate new cars frequently to reduce VOCs. Always close windows when parking to minimize external pollutants. Regularly wipe interior surfaces with neutral cleaners, avoiding harsh chemicals. I often clean out trunk clutter to prevent rotting smells. If odors persist, inspect the air intake for blockages. These simple upkeep steps save effort and enhance driving comfort.
