I've started to notice a "wet" or a damp smell coming from my air vents. Since it's been pretty hot lately i've been using the AC heavily and when i turn it off i can smell what might be moisture staying behind n then stinkin up the vents?

Is this an indication i need a new air filter? The smell isn't HORRIBLE...but i can notice it. Do you guys think if i just turn the HEAT on or let it dry out it will be okay?

Anyone else had a damp smell issue?

 

Start with a new filter, and make certain that the condensate drain is not clogged. Some say to eliminate the odor shut the A/C off a few minutes before shutting the car down, I've never tried, never needed to, as with all the cars I've owned with A/C never a problem. They have products available to help eliminate the odor and can be introduced either through the air intake or center vents depending on the instructions and type of "cleaner".

 

My son who is a acura tech just replaced my cabin filter, it was pretty dirty. He also sprayed lysol on the new filter & told me all techs use it when replacing them. It kills mold, mildew & eliminates odors.

 

Thanks guys...
It's a pain in the arse to replace the filter..saw a DIY video...but it's not impossible i guess...i was just wondering if it's an indication that a new one is required? or could be some other issue? like condensation from the AC? Because there was no smell before i started using the AC. I don't want to replace the filter only to still be stuck with the odor. I just bought a certified used like 2 months ago...i'm not sure if they replace the cabin filter when they certify it...i am guessing they do?

Also, i do USUALLY shut the AC off when i'm off the freeways and getting close to my destination...

 

When we purchased our CPO the filter wasn't change and when I did do the change it was completely covered with debris. I wouldn't be suprised if it was never change in the 3yr 36k miles before I purchased the car. I wouldn't think the dealer would as it's out of sight, out of mind for them. They need to be replaced often so I would replace the filter then go from there.

 

I believe their is a youtube video on it.

 

^ If you're mechanically inclined, this job is a breeze. Just remember that when you get to the step where you have to pull the final piece off before you access the filter, there are two black clips.

To take of the one right, you need to push the center inward for the clip to free itself, then use a flat head or something to take it out.

The clip on the left has no center pin and can be taken out with some persuasion.

Also when you are putting everything back together. Make sure and get the bottom lined up first then make your way upward making sure every clip and tab are seated in their rightful place, then put the glove box on. There is a DIY in the garage. GL

 

Hmm..that sucks...seems like something they SHOULD do...but i can see them not doing it

Yes..i found one for 2006...guessing it's not too different..

Thanks so much! appriciate the feedback. I will search for the DIY...the video i saw for 06 didn't seem horrible..just seemed like it was easy to break those clips that you talked about.

 

I also had the damp smell and changed the filter this past weekend. There were bugs & debris all through it. I know I paid the dealer to do this at one point, but now I question if they did the work! It was an easy DIY with a screwdriver.

 

the filter replacement is a 10 minute job....

everytime i detailed my car what i used to do it blow the AC on full with the setting where AIR from outside is brought into the cabin....then i sprayed some lysol in the vents under the windshield wiper....

this just kept all the mold etc from growing....so i suggest you do the same....just spray some lysol....

 

hmmm Lysol aye...aight i'll try that after i replace the filter...but i'm going to attempt to do the filter replacement after i get my car back from the shop(will turn it in today or later this week) to fix that hit and run quarter planel damage....($1500 *sigh*) going to go through the insurance! I figure might as well replace it since i don't know if it was done or not when the dealer got it