How to Remove Car Odors
Learn how to remove car odors with our detailed step-by-step guide. Follow our easy instructions to get it done right.
Your Progress
0 of 6 steps completedStep-by-Step Instructions
1 Step 1: Identify Source of Odor
Step 1: Identify Source of Odor
Determine cause: spills, mildew, smoke, pet odors, or HVAC system issues.
UV Blacklight Flashlight
UV light for finding hidden stains causing odors
2 Step 2: Remove Trash and Vacuum Interior
Step 2: Remove Trash and Vacuum Interior
Clear all trash, remove floor mats, thoroughly vacuum seats, carpets, and crevices.
Car Vacuum Cleaner
Portable wet/dry vacuum with attachments for car detailing
3 Step 3: Shampoo Carpets and Upholstery
Step 3: Shampoo Carpets and Upholstery
Use upholstery cleaner or extractor to deep clean fabric seats, floor mats, and carpet.
Upholstery Cleaner Spray
Fabric cleaner for removing stains and odors from seats
Carpet Extractor Machine
Portable extractor for deep cleaning car carpets
4 Step 4: Clean and Replace Cabin Air Filter
Step 4: Clean and Replace Cabin Air Filter
Remove old cabin filter (often source of musty smell), install new filter.
Cabin Air Filter
Replacement HVAC filter for your vehicle
Cabin Filter with Activated Carbon
Charcoal filter for odor absorption
5 Step 5: Use Odor Eliminator Products
Step 5: Use Odor Eliminator Products
Apply enzymatic odor eliminator to fabrics, leave overnight for molecular odor breakdown.
Enzymatic Odor Eliminator
Spray that breaks down organic odors at molecular level
Activated Charcoal Bags
Natural odor absorbers for continuous freshening (4-pack)
6 Step 6: Treat HVAC System for Mildew
Step 6: Treat HVAC System for Mildew
Spray HVAC cleaner into intake vents while running AC to kill mold and bacteria in evaporator.
AC Evaporator Cleaner
Foam spray for cleaning HVAC system and killing mildew
Ozone Generator
Machine for removing stubborn odors from car interior