Not only does it cause discomfort to people in the car, the stench can also be a warning sign of potential hygiene, technical or health problems.
Here are some causes that can lead to odor in the interior of the vehicle:
Air conditioning systems are a popular "guide"
According to statistics from the US Automotive Engineering Association (SAE), more than 40% of cases of odorful vehicles are related to air conditioning systems. When the vehicle operates in a humid environment, especially in tropical areas like Vietnam, bacteria and mold easily grow in the refrigerator and air pipes. When turned on the air conditioner, they will be released into the cabin, causing an unpleasant odor.
If your vehicle has a mold or mildly fishy smell when turned on the air conditioner, it is very likely that the air conditioner is being attacked by bacteria. Regular cleaning or using an antibacterial filter will help to significantly improve this problem.
Absorbed and odor-reserving interior materials
Vehicle interior often uses leather, plastic or plastic, which are all materials that can retain strong odors. Scattered food, spillwed drinks or even sweat from the rider can stick to it for a long time and decompose slowly, especially when the car is often closed.
In humid hot climates, these odor molecules are more likely to be activated and spread in the cabin. Not cleaning the floor, seat surface and ceiling periodically makes the odor worse.
New car can still have an unpleasant smell
A common paradox is that even new cars have unpleasant odors. The reason comes from the fact that materials such as plastic, glue, interior coating, etc. secrete volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the first few months of use. These VOCs not only cause strong odors but also pose a potential health risk if exposed for a long time.
Some manufacturers are improving interior materials towards being more friendly, however, VOC is still a common problem. Regular ventilation and avoiding parking in the hot sun will help reduce odor emissions.
Livestock and smoking
Carrying a pet or smoking in a car are two obvious reasons but are often overlooked. The smell of animal fur, urine or cigarette smoke can stick to seats, air conditioners and even air filters. These odors are not easily removed with conventional perfume or deodorant spray.
Solutions
To keep the interior clean and comfortable, experts recommend cleaning the interior every 3 - 6 months, regularly opening the car door for ventilation, and replacing air conditioning filters every 10,000 - 15,000 km. In addition, limiting eating and smoking in a car is the simplest but most effective way.
