If you’re spending a lot of time in your car, you won’t want it to smell bad. But that’s what happens when bacteria and mold build up inside your vehicle’s air conditioning (A/C) system. Moisture gets trapped inside the system, producing a funky odor that lingers even after the air conditioner is shut down. This musty smell can make your passengers uncomfortable, so you’ll need to take care of it as soon as possible. But first, let’s look at some of the reasons why your car’s A/C smells bad.
The cabin filter in your vehicle has a simple job. It prevents dirt and dust mites from entering the passenger compartment. This part can become dirty and clogged over time from collecting pollutants. A dirty cabin filter can produce a musky odor that gets more pronounced when the A/C is turned on. Experts recommend replacing the cabin filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. However, dusty driving conditions can reduce this part’s lifespan.
Moisture from condensation can lead to mold growth. Your vehicle’s air conditioning system provides the ideal environment for mold and bacteria due to its dark and damp enclosure. If you’re always using your vehicle’s A/C, you’re not giving the air vents and ducts enough time to dry completely. Severe mold can damage your vehicle’s A/C and cause respiratory problems for people onboard. Fortunately, you can hire a professional to remove the mold to get rid of the smell.
Your vehicle’s A/C has a condensate drain system that collects water and debris from evaporator coils. If the drain system becomes clogged with debris, the condensate can overflow and cause mold to form on your A/C components. The backed up condensate can be one of the reasons why your car A/C smells like vinegar or has other foul odors. You have to be careful when cleaning the drain line because accidental spills can potentially damage electrical parts.
Although rare, there are instances where animals can get inside your vehicle and die. Dead animals can get stuck in the air ducts and give off a nasty smell as they decompose. These carcasses can moisten with water droplets from the HVAC system and develop mold, which presents all kinds of problems.
Several factors can contribute to your car’s bad smell. Some fixes can be done at home with common household items and a bit of elbow grease. But more complex problems will require a professional touch. We recommend taking your ride to a mechanic to find out the underlying causes of your car’s obnoxious odor.
Regular maintenance can prevent mold buildup in your vehicle’s A/C. Be sure to change your cabin air filter on time and take care of any repairs that pop up.
Nobody wants to sit in a smelly cabin. It isn’t just uncomfortable, it’s unhealthy too. Unless you want to get sick from all the bacteria floating around, you should always change your cabin air filter according to your manufacturer’s recommended interval. Luckily, getting a new cabin air filter is fast and easy with CarParts.com.
CarParts.com offers a wide selection of cabin air filters at different price points. They’re also sourced from only the most trusted manufacturers in the industry, so you’re sure to get your money’s worth. If you’re in a hurry to get your new cabin air filter, you’ll be pleased to know that CarParts.com offers fast shipping. Just order by 12 p.m. ET, and you can expect to receive your package in as fast as two business days.
Don’t endure your car A/C’s smell any longer than you have to. Get a brand-new cabin air filter from CarParts.com today.
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