Bad Smells in Your Car? Here’s How to Get Rid of Them

There are few things as exasperating as bad smells in your car. Here is how to deal with three common scenarios involving unpleasant odors in your vehicle.

Smells With Unknown Sources

While the source of some odors is pretty easy to detect, there are cases where it’s difficult to tell where the smell is coming from. If you face that situation, inspect the cabin carefully. Look for food that has been forgotten, or substances may have been dragged into your car on the soles of a passenger’s shoes. Once you identify the source of the smell, open the doors to air the car and clean the affected area, if necessary.

Keep in mind that some odors (like gas and oil) may come from the engine or other sensitive components of your vehicle and usually require a visit to the mechanic.

Smoke Smell

Smoke smell is particularly difficult to remove because it penetrates the upholstery and sticks to the interior surfaces of your car. If you detect a smoke smell in your vehicle, follow these steps:

Empty the ashtrays
Spray an odor eliminator into the vents
Roll down all windows to let fresh air in
Clean the interior panels using a surface cleaner or a 50/50 water-and-vinegar solution

Mildew Smell

Musty smells are common, especially during the rainy season. The first thing to know is that mildew or musty smells are caused by excess moisture. This type of smell can come from a variety of sources, including forgotten clothes, water leaks, or a faulty air conditioning system. To get rid of this smell, follow this checklist:

If possible, remove the source of the odor
If the carpets or upholstery are the problem, use a vacuum to remove excess moisture
Use a steam cleaner for the upholstery
Clean the interior panels using a surface cleaner or a 50/50 water-and-vinegar solution

More Tips and Resources

Keep your ride always in top-notch condition with these posts that cover every aspect of care and maintenance of your car.

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