How to Fix Smelly Air Conditioning in Car

If bacteria and mildew build up in your car’s AC system, you may end up with smelly air conditioning. Car owners will all experience this at some point, no matter how well we look after our vehicles.

So, how do you get rid of a bad smell in car air vents? First, flush out the system by running your AC regularly and letting in plenty of fresh air. Replacing your air filters may also help. If the problem persists, an odour-eliminating car air-con freshener can work wonders.

In this guide, we'll discuss why your air conditioning in car smells bad, and how to fix it. We'll also explain how to use Air-Con Cologne, a powerful car AC cleaner that will leave your air vents smelling fresh and luxurious.

Why Does the Air Conditioner in My Car Smell Bad?

If your car air conditioning smells bad, the most likely culprit is moisture.

Air conditioning systems work by absorbing moisture and heat from the air. The collected water vapour forms condensation, which exits the car through a drainage hose.

However, sometimes, small amounts of moisture can become trapped within the air-con system. Micro-organisms thrive in damp conditions, so this allows bacteria and mildew to grow. Over time, this can result in a bad smell from AC in car air vents, which may be described as:

• Musty
• Stale or stuffy
• Mouldy
• Damp, like laundry that hasn’t dried properly
• Funky, like old socks or body odour

Not only is this unpleasant, but prolonged exposure to mould spores may also cause respiratory issues.  

How to Get Rid of Bad Smell in a Car AC System

Everyone hates a smelly AC, car owners and passengers alike. It can be downright embarrassing, especially when a standard car air freshener can’t even cover the odour entirely. (That being said, a car AC bomb may do a better job – we’ll discuss this later.)

If you’re wondering how to get rid of bad smell in car air-con systems, here are some ideas you can try.

Replace the Air Filters

One potential reason your air conditioning in car smells bad is due to a build-up of dust and dirt on the air filters. This can prevent air from flowing properly throughout the system, keeping moisture trapped.

Most manufacturers recommend replacing a car’s air filters every 15,000-30,000 miles. Your owner’s manual should explain how to locate and change the filters – alternatively, a garage can do it for you.

Run Your Car Air-Con Regularly

Car air conditioning systems should be used frequently – not just in summer. Regular use will allow air to flow through the system, preventing it from going stale.

If your car AC smells bad when first turned on, try running it every time you take the car for a few weeks. At the end of your journey, switch off the air-con, but leave the fans on for several minutes. This will help to flush out any moisture that has collected in the system.

Use the ‘Fresh Air’ Function

Try not to run your car's air-con on ‘recirculate’ mode every time you use it. While this can help prevent outside odours from entering your car, it's important to allow fresh air into the system occasionally.

Fresh air can help dry out excess moisture – which may be the culprit if your air conditioning smells bad. In-car AC control panels usually have a ‘fresh air’ button for this purpose. Do not leave your windows open while your air-con is on, as this prevents it from working efficiently.

My Car AC Still Smells Bad – Now What?

If your car air conditioning smells bad even after taking the above steps, this could indicate a stubborn bacterial or fungal problem. The next step is to try a car AC cleaner (or air-con bomb) formulated with germ-killing disinfectant.

AC cleaner for cars usually comes in the form of an aerosol can. It’s designed to penetrate every crevice of your car’s AC system, eradicating microorganisms and smelly air conditioning in car vents.

Air-Con Cologne is a powerful air freshener for car AC systems. As well as killing bacteria and fungi, it leaves behind a long-lasting, luxury aroma inspired by designer fragrances.

How to Use a Car Air Conditioning Bomb

Air-Con Cologne car air conditioning freshener couldn’t be easier to use. Before you start, ensure your car engine is on, air vents are open, and windows are closed. Then, follow these steps:

1. Set your air-con to maximum speed and cooling in ‘recirculation’ mode
2. Shake the canister well and place it in the front passenger footwell, with the seat as far back as possible
3. Keeping it away from your face, activate the canister by pressing down on the valve and locking it into position
4. Exit the car and close all doors behind you, leaving the engine and AC running
5. Once the canister is empty, wipe off any excess mist from your windscreen and textiles and allow recirculation for a further 3 minutes

Afterwards, switch the engine off, open the windows and ventilate the vehicle for 10 minutes. Your fresh-smelling car is now ready to drive!

Find Your Perfect Car Air-Con Freshener at Car Cologne

If you’re looking for a strong AC cleaner for cars that really stink, visit Car Cologne today. Our powerful Air-Con Cologne will keep your car protected for up to 6 months, with fragrance that lasts up to 28 days.

Choose from a range of luxury scents inspired by designer fragrances, including Million, Ventis and Savore. If you can’t decide, order a set of three and save over 15%!

While you’re here, why not check out our best-selling Car Cologne diffusers too? We offer free shipping on all UK orders. For any questions regarding our products or website, don’t hesitate to contact our helpful team.