Backtomars

When I turn on the fan/vents, there is always the musty smell from the vents. However if I turn the A/C on, the smell seems to go away. Just replaced the cabin air filter two days ago, and the problem remains. Any thoughts? Why it is better when the A/C is on? Is the air vented through different pipes?

2012 Acura TL SH-AWD

csmeance

Probably have mold or bacteria growing on the evaporator, you can buy some stuff to spray in there to clean it out.

real_mckoy

The smell is from the moisture left from the a/c usage it is always good to run the fan with the a/c off about 5 mins before you turn the car off so that it does'nt leave the smell the next time you turn your a/c on. So if your 5 min awayfrom your destination and using the a/c run the fan only . I hope i explained it correctly. There is actually a youtube video where the guy sprayed a foam solution cleaner in the vents. But i have never personally done it.. So i definitely understand the smell you are experiencing.

Backtomars

Thanks! Will try the 5 mins trick and see how it goes.

echodigital

I always run the fan too. even in the lowest setting if I don't need it. I read in manual it's best to run it all the time.

acupower

Change the cabin filter (behind the glove box). Sometimes the cabin filter collects moisture and mold grows on it.
After changing the filter, start the car and keep it running until the engine warms up to operating temperature. You might need to drive it around for a bit to do that.
Then park it but keep it running and put the heat on max (max heat, max fan speed). Keep it on for about 20 minutes.

The heat will warm up your vents and dry them. It will also kill any mold (mold dies at around 90F). You're done. Next time you use your A/C, do not set it to recycle your cabin air. Always let it pull outside air to prevent moisture build up.

DO NOT use any sprays or foam products that remove mold. They are toxic as most of them have parabens in them.

Edit: Just re-read your post and realized you already changed your air filter. Good - you are halfway done.

JT4

I agree, I started doing this a while ago in my vehicles and I think it has helped a lot. And while I may sometimes still get that "musty" smell, it's not nearly as bad as it used to be.