If your car smells bad, it could be due to a number of reasons. Here are some of the most common causes:
1. You have a dirty air filter.
The air filter is responsible for trapping dirt, dust and other airborne particles before they can enter the engine. Over time, however, it can become clogged with debris, causing a musty smell to emanate from the car. To fix this, simply replace the air filter with a new one.
2. Your cabin air filter is dirty.
The cabin air filter helps to clean the air inside the vehicle and should be replaced every 12 months or so. A dirty cabin air filter can cause foul odors to develop over time. To clean or replace your cabin air filter, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
3. There is mold growing in your car.
Mold loves dark, damp places—and your car fits that bill perfectly if you live in a humid climate or don’t park in a garage (or if you do park in a garage but never open the door to let fresh air circulate). If you suspect mold might be the culprit behind your stinky car smell, do a visual inspection first; if you see black or greenish growths on any surface (including upholstery), then it’s time to call in a professional cleaner specializing in mold removal (don’t try to tackle this yourself as mold spores can cause respiratory problems). If there’s no visible mold but you still suspect it might be present, have someone take an ozone reading inside the vehicle; high levels of ozone indicate there’s likely mold lurking somewhere out of sight.
4..You spilled something rotten in your car .
Whether it was last night’s fast food leftovers or yesterday’s gym clothes that didn’t make it into the laundry hamper, spills happen—and when they involve rotting food or bacteria-laden sweat socks, they can leave behind an incredibly rank smell.. If you spill something in your car and catch it quickly enough, start by blotting up as much of the liquid as possible with paper towels; then follow up with an enzymatic cleaner designed to break down organic matter (like Pet Stain & Odor Remover from BISSELL) and allow it to soak for at least 15 minutes before wiping away If there's still