Rep Power: 283

Whenever I turn on my A/C for the first time it usually has this kind of bad odor to it. Nothing has been spilt in the vents and nothing has been damaged. The smell only occurs if the A/C hasnt been on for a day or two. Then it goes away after about 3-5 minutes. I was wondering if anyone knew anything about this...b/c its just an unusual smell. I know somethings not right.
Thanks,
Chris

Mod,
I hope this is in the right forum. If not please move it to its correct forum. Thanks.

 
Rep Power: 0

The smell is caused by bacteria. Some people will use a disinfectant to get rid of it. To prevent it, I do the following. If your using your a/c, turn it off a few miles/minutes before you get to your destination, but leave the fan on. This has worked for me in my cars.

 
Rep Power: 283

is there a way i can get rid of the bacteria? like if i take it into honda or what? preciate the tip.

 
Rep Power: 320

just change the filter. Its like $10.

 
Rep Power: 452

the filter has nothing to do with the smell. That only filters out dirt, pollen, etc.. and they arent $10.

the bacteria which leads to the smell usually comes from the evaporator case drain. if it gets clogged up, moisture will build up.

they have stuff at stores you can use in your AC to clear up the smell.

 
Rep Power: 811

Someone said turn up the heat full blast just before turning off the car. That will prevent mildew from growing. If you use the recirculate button alot, it happens all the time.

 
Rep Power: 283

we'll see what happens...i'm about to go in for my 30k mile check up. so i'll ask the honda techs what i need to do and i'll go from there. im not saying ya'll are wrong...its just that if i can get it done for free (cuz my waranty)then id rather do that.
ps. honda will probably try voiding my warranty cuz ive got exhuast and cai...they're so gay at mine. haha preciate the help though guys