AC has a vinegary odor.

[markjay]

The MidAtlantic area on the east coast of the United States, namely Virginia, has seen high temperatures recently. I have been often use the air conditioning system in my Mazda CX-9, and I have recently seen, subsequent to a series of wet days, the presence of a vinegar-like odor emanating from the inside of the car upon first activating the AC. The sensation diminishes within a little duration, although exhibits considerable intensity initially. Do you have any indication of the nature of this phenomenon and any potential methods for its eradication? Has anybody else encountered this issue and successfully resolved it? I express my gratitude in advance.
 

[torque2me]

There is a potential presence of mold in the air conditioning evaporator and pollen filter. It is recommended to do maintenance on the pollen filter and get an aerosol can of air conditioning treatment.

[stevenkeyte]

It is advisable to consider replacing the cabin filter. It is recommended that this service be conducted at each seasonal transition or during periods of increased air conditioning use, such as the summer months. Additionally, it is advisable to do this service when the vehicle is utilized in environments characterized by dust or smoke particles. Regarding the matter at hand, I now reside in the state of California, where a significant number of individuals are likely aware of the ongoing wildfires that have plagued our region. Although I do not have a personal relationship with them, I am geographically surrounded by them. The inherent atmospheric conditions and wind patterns have a tendency to accumulate smoke emissions originating from nearby fires, resulting in the deposition of ash particles upon my vehicle as I exit my garage. I have performed the task of cleaning my cabin filter on two separate occasions over the last 10-day period.
During the summer season, it is recommended to periodically apply alcohol to all the vents about every three weeks. While I have not seen any evidence supporting the notion that this activity is beneficial, nor have I come across any instances of others engaging in it. I can attest to its efficacy based on personal experience.

[markjay]

According to online sources, it has been suggested that replacing the cabin air filter may potentially provide positive results. Approximately 1500 miles ago, I replaced my vehicle's [specific item] for a cost of approximately $25, procured from a nearby automotive parts retailer. A straightforward solution would be to address the issue, given that it was unclean. I shall attempt to engage in that endeavor. What is the efficacy of using Lysol spray inside the recirculating air intake system, while operating the air conditioning unit at maximum capacity on the recirculate setting for a brief duration? Could that perhaps be beneficial? Additionally, is it necessary to spray all vents? Alternatively, would it be advisable to purchase a designated cleaning product?

[stevenkeyte]

It is advisable to use a solution of isopropyl alcohol with a concentration of 70% alcohol and 30% water just for the purpose of spraying straight into the ventilation system. To maximize the efficiency of the spraying process in a specific region, it is advisable to activate the fan at its highest setting and direct the spray towards the intake duct located in the engine compartment. Additionally, removing the cabin filter may further enhance the effectiveness of the spraying process.Accessing the intake duck requires a certain level of effort, as it necessitates the removal of both the wiper arm and the two-piece plastic cover located at the bottom section of the windshield, under the wiper arms. The process of work, from initiation to completion, is indeed a valuable investment of time. It is advisable to have a shop vacuum or a household vacuum readily available, as it presents an opportune time to clean the area while the covers are removed.

The significance of the cabin filter's pricing is contingent upon a comprehensive understanding of its specific brand and model. However, transitioning to a new one is preferable than not doing so.

[markjay]

A potential solution is a mixture consisting of 70% alcohol and 30% water, which might be dispensed using a spray bottle with a finer misting mechanism. The proposed course of action and the introduction of the new filter seem to be promising. Thank you for your response.

[markjay]

I would want to express my gratitude to all those who have provided assistance. I will provide updates on the progress and outcomes of the situation.

[DreamCatcher88]

The majority of the distinctive odors detected by individuals who have just acquired a new vehicle might be attributed to elevated concentrations of formaldehyde or benzene inside the automobile. The elevated levels of formaldehyde present in the atmosphere inside newly manufactured automobiles mostly originate from aesthetic components, such as seat couch cushions and roof trim fabric linings. Conversely, benzene emissions are predominantly attributed to the use of adhesives in the vehicle assembly process. In addition, many premium brand new automobiles have a distinctive scent emanating from the damper. This component, composed of viscoelastic material, is affixed to the inner surface of the vehicle body and positioned in proximity to the steel plate wall. Its primary purpose is to mitigate noise and dampen vibrations.

Indeed, the olfactory sensation often referred to as the "new car smell" mostly emanates from three distinct factors:

The new vehicle releases hazardous fumes via its components.

Various components such as plastic parts, carpets, roof felts, and seats that are incorporated into the automobile might also release associated scents. Hazardous gases include a variety of compounds, such as benzene, formaldehyde, acetone, and xylene, among others.

The ingress of external contaminants into the vehicle and subsequent pollution might occur due to inadequate sealing of the cabin or the use of an inefficient air conditioning system.

As per the expert maintenance employees at the 4S shop, the domestic car maintenance business mostly use conventional oil-based paint for vehicle spray painting. It is worth noting that oil-based paint has a higher concentration of volatile organic compounds. These organic chemicals have the potential to pose risks to human health.

When purchasing an automobile, it is advisable to assess the olfactory characteristics by opening the vehicle's door, particularly for those who are car owners and have pregnant women or children. It is recommended to go for a vehicle model that either lacks any distinct odors or exhibits a milder scent that adheres to national norms. During the first phases of purchasing a new automobile, it is advisable to unlatch the vehicle's door before to entering in order to disperse any lingering odors. It is advisable to refrain from firmly closing the windows when operating a vehicle. It is advisable to provide sufficient ventilation by appropriately opening the windows when traveling on a route with reasonably favorable air quality, even if there exists a little gap. The flavor of the new automobile has been significantly diminished. It is advisable to use the external circulation mode more often while operating air conditioning units.

It is advisable to use charcoal bags as an odor absorber for the purpose of eliminating the scent associated with new cars.The bamboo charcoal bags are suitable for many applications, including bathrooms, closets, automobiles, drawers, refrigerators, huge spaces, new car interiors, shoes, pet areas, gym bags, and laundry rooms, among others.The use of high-quality activated carbon with an adsorption capacity that surpasses that of regular activated charcoal is employed. This is achieved by the incorporation of a supplementary high-temperature activation procedure, resulting in bamboo charcoal bags that possess enhanced surface area and activity. Consequently, these bags exhibit heightened efficacy in promptly eliminating odors and moisture.

[stevenkeyte]

Have you taken the time to thoroughly read the first response? Although the information provided is informative, it does not address the specific problem pertaining to the odors. The user expressed amusement through the acronym "LOL." Please revisit the first answer.

To facilitate a thorough review, I have taken the initiative to emphasize and underline pertinent details, aiming to assist the team in addressing the raised issues.
According to Esmazda (186857),The MidAtlantic area on the east coast of the United States, namely Virginia, has had a period of high temperatures. I have been often use the air conditioning system in my Mazda CX-9, and I have recently seen, subsequent to a series of wet days, the emergence of a distinct vinegar odor emanating from the inside of the car when the AC is first activated. The sensation diminishes over a short duration, although exhibits considerable intensity initially. Do you have any indication of the nature of this phenomenon and any potential methods for its eradication? Has anybody else encountered this issue and successfully resolved it? I express my gratitude in advance.I apologize, but I'm unable to provide a response without any text from you. CouldIn order to facilitate a more thorough review, I have taken the liberty of annotating the text by highlighting and underlining pertinent clues and significant information to assist the individual in question.Unfortunately, the user's text is incomplete and does not provide any information or context to beHave you taken the time to thoroughly read the first response? Although the information provided is informative, it does not directly address the problem about the odors. The user's text, "LOL," could be rewritten as "The user expressed amusement Please revisit the first answer.

It is vital to use caution about the details pertaining to your content.
The statement suggests that certain items can potentially eliminate airborne odors that are deemed "harmful," although it does not specify whether this removal is permanent or only temporary, limited to the immediate air. However, it fails to acknowledge the existence of cabin filters that have been in use for several decades. These filters, when utilized in conjunction with the HVAC system as intended, have the capacity to significantly reduce a substantial portion of the aforementioned "harmful" odors. It is worth noting that the article may be outdated, as it does not account for this particular technology.

The fault identified in the article is the perception held by many individuals that as an automobile ages, the purportedly "harmful" odors eventually disperse or disappear. Those individuals who have such a belief would be gravely mistaken. The olfactory presence of human-related elements inside the confines of a vehicle serves as the primary factor that conceals their true nature. The user's text "LOL" could be rewritten as "The user expressed amusement or

 

Testing is a straightforward process that involves selecting an automobile with a well-maintained interior. Provide a comprehensive and thorough cleaning procedure with only eco-friendly cleaning agents such as warm water, mild soap solutions, and environmentally conscious cleansers. I am referring to a thorough and comprehensive cleaning. Subsequently, it is recommended to allow the vehicle to remain stationary for a duration of around 2 to 3 months, ideally throughout the summer season. At the conclusion of the examination, your vehicle will undergo a rapid restoration, resulting in the reemergence of its pristine condition akin to that of a newly manufactured automobile. This solution is applicable to a wide range of automobiles equipped with a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, including some older models from the 1970s or earlier.