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Pew! What’s that Smell? The Best Advice to Fix a Stinky AC

What’s That Smell? Understanding and Fixing Your Car’s AC Odor

Picture this: You jump into your car after a sweltering day of kayaking at Susquehanna River, happy to turn on the AC for a cooling ride home. But, instead your car’s air conditioning greets you with a tragically unpleasant odor.  And you quickly decide that this is both annoying and concerning. So, in this blog, the experts at Meineke in Hershey offer this guide to understanding the causes of that bad smell from your car AC and what you can do about it.

Common Causes of AC Odor

  1. Mold and Mildew: The most common cause of foul smells from your car’s AC is the growth of mold and mildew. Because mold and mildew can form in the evaporator core, which is often damp and dark; perfect conditions for mold. And this typically happens when water from the AC system doesn’t drain properly.
  2. Dirty Cabin Air Filter: Your cabin air filter is designed to clean the air that comes into the car. But if it becomes clogged with dirt, dust, and other debris, it can start to smell. And this is especially true if the filter is also damp.
  3. Decaying Organic Matter: Sometimes, leaves, pollen, or other organic matter can get trapped in the AC system (particularly around the intake area). And as these decompose, they can produce unpleasant odors.
  4. Leaking Fluids: Occasionally, leaking coolant or other fluids can get into the AC system and produce a bad smell. Furthermore, this can be a sign of a more serious issue that needs immediate attention.

What to Do About It

  1. Change the Cabin Air Filter: Start by checking and replacing your cabin air filter if it’s dirty. Because, this is a simple and cost-effective first step.
  2. Clean the Evaporator Coil: If mold or mildew is the issue, cleaning the evaporator coil can help. But, you might need to use a special cleaning solution designed for AC systems. And in some cases, this might be a job for the professionals at Meineke in Hershey.
  3. Use an AC Cleaning Solution: There are various AC cleaning solutions available that can help eliminate odors. And these are usually sprayed into the air intake vents and can help to disinfect and freshen up the system.
  4. Ensure Proper Drainage: Make sure the AC system is draining properly. Because, if water isn’t draining out of the system, it can lead to mold growth. So check for any blockages in the drain tubes.
  5. Check for Leaks: If you suspect a fluid leak, it’s best to take your car to the ASE certified mechanics at Meineke in Hershey. Because, they can check for any leaks and fix them before they cause more serious damage.
  6. Regular Maintenance: Regularly running your AC, even in the winter, can help keep the system dry and free from mold. Also, scheduling periodic maintenance for your AC system can prevent bad smells and keep it running efficiently.

Meineke in Hershey Can Help Keep Your A/C Working and Smelling Its Best

By understanding the causes and taking the appropriate steps, you can keep your car’s AC smelling fresh and clean. Also, regular maintenance and timely checks at your locally owned Meineke in Hershey can save you from the inconvenience of unpleasant odors.

If the Meineke in Hershey is not a convenient auto repair center for you, Meineke has 14 car repair centers is South Central Pennsylvania:

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Shelly Reale

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