Really bad smell when inside is heated on a hot day!

[Rick Shin]

I'm really frustrated about this problem.

Whenever the inside of the car is heated on a hot day by the sun, the interior really smells bad.

I can't describe the smell. Kind of like urine or new leather, but in a very unpleasant way.

Strangely, it doesn't smell bad when I turn on the heater, or when the inside doesn't become warm enough under the sun.

I don't know where to start.

Any suggestions?

 

[Mark_888]

Did you try changing the cabin filter located in the glove box? There are videos on YouTube on how to change it. You can purchase a filter from a dealer or any auto parts or discount store. This is one filter that it is OK to not go with OEM. The cabin filter should be changed once per year.

 

[glennk]

1. Cabin filter
2. Sanitize the intake (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VrVc_FXrbHY)
3. Odor eliminating charcoal (https://www.amazon.com/Moso-Natural...91769275&sr=8-4&keywords=car+smell+eliminator)

 

[Rick Shin]

Did you try changing the cabin filter located in the glove box? There are videos on YouTube on how to change it. You can purchase a filter from a dealer or any auto parts or discount store. This is one filter that it is OK to not go with OEM. The cabin filter should be changed once per year.

Yes, the cabin filter is brand-new. had it replaced with the most recent oil change.

I'm suspecting that the cause is something that becomes volatile with heat. Otherwise, the problem should have presented itself during the cold months too.

 

[Mark_888]

Yes, the cabin filter is brand-new. had it replaced with the most recent oil change.

I'm suspecting that the cause is something that becomes volatile with heat. Otherwise, the problem should have presented itself during the cold months too.

Some people have reported that rodents have been living in their cars, not necessarily the cabin. Most of them tend to be the engine compartment because they like to chew on the wires or plastic. Could be that one died and effects the HVAC air intake. You might need someone to inspect the entire undercarriage and engine bay.

The only other thing I can think of is that something was spilled on the seats or carpet. I assume you bought the car new and would know the history of whether that could have happened? I wonder if it could have happened when your car was at the dealer?

 

[Comp1]

How old is your Genny, you don't mention that in your post. When I picked up mine in March of 15 the new car smell was very different than any car I have previously driven. It was almost an acrid/pungent smell. One of the worst new car smells I've every experienced. And when parked outside on a hot day was even more strong. I generally crack the windows a good bit and over time the odor has dissipated. Of course I have the stinking A/C issue so the venting helps this too. Just all in all not a very pleasant car to drive on a daily basis when you have to experience all the smells.

 

[lobsenza]

Check the trunk mat.

 

[Inokea]

Workers making these cars eat Kim Chee for breakfast, lunch, and dinner then work inside the car during assembly. That's what my interior smells like.

 

[NSXNEXT]

How old is your Genny, you don't mention that in your post. When I picked up mine in March of 15 the new car smell was very different than any car I have previously driven. It was almost an acrid/pungent smell. One of the worst new car smells I've every experienced. And when parked outside on a hot day was even more strong. I generally crack the windows a good bit and over time the odor has dissipated. Of course I have the stinking A/C issue so the venting helps this too. Just all in all not a very pleasant car to drive on a daily basis when you have to experience all the smells.

Maybe off-gassing of the vinyl materials in the car (dash, seatbacks)?

 

[Inokea]

Animal hides not properly cured and treated?

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