Air conditioning
The musty smell comes from bacteria and fungi that settle in the condensation on the evaporator. What clears it for good is a new cabin filter and disinfection of the system — air fresheners merely mask it.
The air conditioning cools the air and removes moisture from it. The condensation settles on the evaporator, which sits deep in the dashboard, dark and poorly ventilated — ideal conditions for micro-organisms.
A new cabin filter removes the source of the smell only if the evaporator itself is still clean. If it is already colonised, the smell returns before long — then disinfection is needed as well.
Switch the cooling off about five minutes before you arrive and let the fan keep running. The evaporator dries off in the process and the micro-organisms lack the moisture.
Whatever grows on the evaporator is blown into the cabin every time you switch on. For allergy sufferers and people with sensitive airways that is more than an unpleasant smell.
In brief
Only if the evaporator is still clean. If it is already colonised, the smell returns and disinfection is needed as well.
Usually once a year or at every service. Anyone driving a lot in town or on dusty roads changes it more often.
Yes, occasionally. Running it keeps the seals supple, and the dried air means the windows mist up less.
Matching service
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