I recently purchased a CPO 2013 base GS350 (my first Lexus). It has a strong "stale rubber" odor in the trunk which seems to originate from the spare tire, although the smell persists somewhat even if the tire is removed for a while. It's worse when the car is hot (from sun), as you might expect. Doesn't seem due to any panels/carpeting in trunk.

I've owned a number of cars over many years and haven't encountered such a strong odor from a spare. Is this somehow unique to Lexus? Has anyone noticed this, or is it just my car? Perhaps some other material is involved (inner trunk lining, factory tape, ...?)

I'll of course take it back to the dealer, but I'd like to gather some evidence from other owners first.

 

My trunk actually smells good, it smells like a fresh new car, even better than my interior smell. No rubber smell.

 

I haven't encountered this problem on my CPO GS, but it sounds similar to a problem I had with my 09 Sonata. Moisture would get into the spare wheel well and would cause a nasty stench. It would develop mold on the rubber cover that was under the carpeted cover. You may want to check that. I solved the mold issue with mold/mildew cleaner which remedied that issue. In any event the dealer should be able to at least suggest a fix even if its not mold.

 

I forget the brand, but if you look up air freshener can that's specific for removing cigarette smoke smell there are a few out there that are extremely good at absorbing smells. If i remember the name Ill PM you on it, but I had the same problem putting tires in my trunk for a race event and it stayed forever until i spray that stuff.

 

OK thanks guys. Until I can get into the dealer, I'm putting boxes of baking soda around the tire. Seems ridiculous... have never had to worry about something like this. And with practically a new car.