4 Reasons Why the Air Conditioner Smells in Your Lexus
Get rid of that smell coming from your A/C for good by diagnosing it with help from this article.
1. Dirty Air Filter
If you experience a bad smell when turning on your air conditioner, then the first place to check is the cabin air filter located in the glove box compartment. The cabin air filter collects dust and other pollutants, preventing it from entering your cabin when the fans are turned on. Over time, the filter becomes clogged and can affect the air quality of your interior, which is likely contributing to a bad lingering smell. So spend the twenty bucks to replace the cabin air filter yourself, especially if you can't remember the last time you performed this maintenance. It's a very simple job that anyone can do.
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2. Mold and Bacteria
If you don't use your air conditioner often, this might be creating the perfect environment for mold and other bacteria to form in the air vents or behind the dash panel. On the flip side, turning your air conditioner on 'max' may be causing excess water to drip in the unit and form mold or bacteria spores as it settles. According to CarsDirect.com, here are the next steps to take if you smell a distinct moldy odor when you turn on your A/C.
- Locate the drain tube in the A/C unit and make sure it's working properly.
- Use an anti-bacterial treatment to destroy bacteria that may be growing behind the dash panel. The treatment should be injected into the A/C case.
- Turn off the A/C and let the fan run for several minutes to evaporate water that's on the coils of the unit.
3. Antifreeze or Coolant Leak
Would you describe the smell you experience when you use your air conditioner as sweet? If so, then this may be an indication of a leak in the cooling system. Take your Lexus in to have the heater core, hoses, coolant housing unit and radiator checked as soon as possible. What you're smelling is toxic liquid ethylene glycol, also known as antifreeze.
>>Join the conversation about A/C that smells right here in ClubLexus.com Forum!
4. Gas Leak
Are you smelling a distinct gas scent when you turn on your air conditioner? If so, then your Lexus may have a gas leak. You'll need to have this checked and repaired as soon as possible. Immediate areas to check are the fuel pressure regulator, the fuel injector O-rings, the exhaust pipes and the muffler. If you discover any holes or any areas where fuel has pooled or dried, promptly go to a shop or the dealership to have your Lexus serviced.
>>Join the conversation about A/C that smells right here in ClubLexus.com Forum!
For more maintenance and repair guides, browse our technical How-to and diagnostic articles at http://clublexus.com/how-tos!