Musty A/C odor question
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 142
Likes: 5
From: Houston
2020 E450 Coupe, 2022 Porsche Macan, 2001 Porsche 911
Musty A/C odor question
Dear all,
I had the typical musty odor that I have read about on previous threads. I had the system disinfected at the MD dealer at no cost - under warranty. The musty odor is obviously a problem with our cars (and many others). I have read on many other sites that allowing the a/c to run for a while after the car is off will help to dry out the evaporator, which is where the odor originates.
Dou you all think it's a good idea for me to use the "rest" feature on my A/C system each time I'm finished driving? I believe that the fan continues to blow for 30 mins which would help dry out the evaporator. Seems like it would be a constant drain on the battery...
I just want to keep the musty odor form returning...any opinions/suggestions?
Thanks in advance!!
I had the typical musty odor that I have read about on previous threads. I had the system disinfected at the MD dealer at no cost - under warranty. The musty odor is obviously a problem with our cars (and many others). I have read on many other sites that allowing the a/c to run for a while after the car is off will help to dry out the evaporator, which is where the odor originates.
Dou you all think it's a good idea for me to use the "rest" feature on my A/C system each time I'm finished driving? I believe that the fan continues to blow for 30 mins which would help dry out the evaporator. Seems like it would be a constant drain on the battery...
I just want to keep the musty odor form returning...any opinions/suggestions?
Thanks in advance!!
Almost a Member!
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 47
Likes: 0
From: Texas
'06 E350, appearance/entertainment/ sunroof/DVD NAV/brilliant silver (C744)/Ash leather
Turn on the heating at its highest setting and dry it out...
What I do every now and then (around once a week) is turn of the airco and turn the auto control buttons (left + right) to the highest temp setting.
Then exit the car and leave it running for a couple of minutes. Alternatively drive with the widnows open for a couple of minutes and sweat a little...
This seems to dry out and maybe even "burn away" some of the problem.
Maybe a more MB A/C knowledgable person can explain better what exactly happens, but it seems to work.
If you try this let me know if it works.
Cheers, Bode
Then exit the car and leave it running for a couple of minutes. Alternatively drive with the widnows open for a couple of minutes and sweat a little...
This seems to dry out and maybe even "burn away" some of the problem.
Maybe a more MB A/C knowledgable person can explain better what exactly happens, but it seems to work.
If you try this let me know if it works.
Cheers, Bode
Member
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 213
Likes: 4
From: SF Bay Area
2015 GLK 250 BT
How timely! I just had my 05 E320-CDI in for service, to clean that exact same musty odor from my A/C system. Although I described it to the dealer as a "smelly diaper"! And for the past week after it was cleaned, when I've been running the A/C, I'll have a shutdown period with the A/C-off button, ie. with only the fan running to dry out the system. Don't know whether that'll work.
I'm interested in anyone elses practice/process.
I'm interested in anyone elses practice/process.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 5,939
Likes: 178
From: Seattle WA
99 E320
tsb....in case anything here helps. with my 210 i spritz some a/c musty spray
i got at local auto parts store. i also sprayed into intake track. i pulled out the
cabin filters behind the glove box and sprayed back there. i sprinkled a thin
layer of baking soda onto the top side of the bottom cabin filter and resinstalled
so far, so good.
i got at local auto parts store. i also sprayed into intake track. i pulled out the
cabin filters behind the glove box and sprayed back there. i sprinkled a thin
layer of baking soda onto the top side of the bottom cabin filter and resinstalled
so far, so good.
Last edited by raymond g-; Jul 2, 2007 at 12:45 AM.
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 15,901
Likes: 4,632
From: North Scottsdale, AZ
'71 Pinto
Current: DTB P-B-83.30/74f MAR07 Air conditioning musty/moldy odor complaints. The Wynn’s cleaning system is no longer used, replaced with MB Contra Sept. ALL filters will be replaced, evaporator cleaned, and evaporator control settings updated under warranty.
To reduce the possibility of this condition to reoccur, operate the blower at higher speed especially during humid conditions. For vehicles with a REST function, it also helps to use this feature during humid conditions when parking the car.
Note: If the odor returns within three months of having the evaporator cleaned a new slanted heater box bottom (part # A211 830 22 03) which allows the condensation to drain better and a coated evaporator (part # A211 830 07 58 - both parts entered production VIN A675828 & X171590) will be installed.
To reduce the possibility of this condition to reoccur, operate the blower at higher speed especially during humid conditions. For vehicles with a REST function, it also helps to use this feature during humid conditions when parking the car.
Note: If the odor returns within three months of having the evaporator cleaned a new slanted heater box bottom (part # A211 830 22 03) which allows the condensation to drain better and a coated evaporator (part # A211 830 07 58 - both parts entered production VIN A675828 & X171590) will be installed.
Last edited by konigstiger; Jun 7, 2007 at 05:40 PM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 2,767
Likes: 0
From: Arizona
BMW FTW
Basically its bacteria that grow on the condensation.. So the best bet is 5 mins before you stop the car turn off the A/C. I have yet to find a car that is immune to this problem. Living in AZ this is a problem I suffer with year long since I was the A/C about 350 days of the year, and yes its horrible to drive 5 mins without A/C when its 120F outside but it does the trick.
Now you may have a condensation hose that is blocked thus causing more oder than normal, but usual I would say the odder goes away after 2 mins of running the A/C .
Now you may have a condensation hose that is blocked thus causing more oder than normal, but usual I would say the odder goes away after 2 mins of running the A/C .
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 142
Likes: 5
From: Houston
2020 E450 Coupe, 2022 Porsche Macan, 2001 Porsche 911
You guys are all awesome, and thanks for your great help and recommendations. This report from "all data" is very helpful, and I am grateful for your sharing it with us.
Thanks again!
Thanks again!
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 6,061
Likes: 326
From: 2000 ft over the FL coast in a B-17
Various
Current: DTB P-B-83.30/74f MAR07 Air conditioning musty/moldy odor complaints. The Wynn’s cleaning system is no longer used, replaced with MB Contra Sept. ALL filters will be replaced, evaporator cleaned, and evaporator control settings updated under warranty.
To reduce the possibility of this condition to reoccur, operate the blower at higher speed especially during humid conditions. For vehicles with a REST function, it also helps to use this feature during humid conditions when parking the car.
Note: If the odor returns within three months of having the evaporator cleaned a new slanted heater box bottom (part # A211 830 22 03) which allows the condensation to drain better and a coated evaporator (part # A211 830 07 58 - both parts entered production VIN A675828 & X171590) will be installed.
To reduce the possibility of this condition to reoccur, operate the blower at higher speed especially during humid conditions. For vehicles with a REST function, it also helps to use this feature during humid conditions when parking the car.
Note: If the odor returns within three months of having the evaporator cleaned a new slanted heater box bottom (part # A211 830 22 03) which allows the condensation to drain better and a coated evaporator (part # A211 830 07 58 - both parts entered production VIN A675828 & X171590) will be installed.
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Junior Member
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 21
Likes: 0
2020 AMG CLA45S
Ac
Hi there,
As I have mentioned in any thread, I just picked up my car yesterday after 2 weeks' of repair. One of it is the AC smell.
I fought really hard to claim this one and finally MB in Hong Kong agreed to pay to Replace AC Operating Unit. Apparently this allows a feature to run the blower at programmed speed even after the car is turned off. Also, the car had gone through a cleaning process with "MB Detergent".
The smell is so far really gone. I live in Hong Kong and climate is REAALLY humid and hot. Today it is 32 degrees centigrade and over 95% humidity.
Hope that helps.
Richard
As I have mentioned in any thread, I just picked up my car yesterday after 2 weeks' of repair. One of it is the AC smell.
I fought really hard to claim this one and finally MB in Hong Kong agreed to pay to Replace AC Operating Unit. Apparently this allows a feature to run the blower at programmed speed even after the car is turned off. Also, the car had gone through a cleaning process with "MB Detergent".
The smell is so far really gone. I live in Hong Kong and climate is REAALLY humid and hot. Today it is 32 degrees centigrade and over 95% humidity.
Hope that helps.
Richard
Dear all,
I had the typical musty odor that I have read about on previous threads. I had the system disinfected at the MD dealer at no cost - under warranty. The musty odor is obviously a problem with our cars (and many others). I have read on many other sites that allowing the a/c to run for a while after the car is off will help to dry out the evaporator, which is where the odor originates.
Dou you all think it's a good idea for me to use the "rest" feature on my A/C system each time I'm finished driving? I believe that the fan continues to blow for 30 mins which would help dry out the evaporator. Seems like it would be a constant drain on the battery...
I just want to keep the musty odor form returning...any opinions/suggestions?
Thanks in advance!!
I had the typical musty odor that I have read about on previous threads. I had the system disinfected at the MD dealer at no cost - under warranty. The musty odor is obviously a problem with our cars (and many others). I have read on many other sites that allowing the a/c to run for a while after the car is off will help to dry out the evaporator, which is where the odor originates.
Dou you all think it's a good idea for me to use the "rest" feature on my A/C system each time I'm finished driving? I believe that the fan continues to blow for 30 mins which would help dry out the evaporator. Seems like it would be a constant drain on the battery...
I just want to keep the musty odor form returning...any opinions/suggestions?
Thanks in advance!!
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 420
Likes: 1
From: Los Angeles
2003 E320
Just take it to your dealer and let them handle it. I had the problem over four years ago when my car was new. They fixed it, and the problem never came back. It's not something you have to deal with forever!
Enjoy your new car!
Enjoy your new car!
Almost a Member!
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 50
Likes: 0
From: SE Florida
'05 C55 AMG, '05 Toyota Sequoia
The dealer has replaced the blower motor twice and both filters already. It works for around 3 days, and today I got it again - the smell and ac shut-off. I will show them the TSB, but why my ac stops working? the water doesn't evaporate and shortens something? but only for a minute
When in "auto"mode, the A?C doesn't shut off no matter how long you run it, as soon as you switch it back to normal, bam!
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 420
Likes: 1
From: Los Angeles
2003 E320
I checked my paperwork, and what they did when I had the problem was reprogrammed the star computer to allow increased draining of condensation from the evaporator to reduce odor and dew retention. The recoded it so it would be at the minimum possible. It worked for me.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 142
Likes: 5
From: Houston
2020 E450 Coupe, 2022 Porsche Macan, 2001 Porsche 911
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 142
Likes: 5
From: Houston
2020 E450 Coupe, 2022 Porsche Macan, 2001 Porsche 911
I definitely don't have that button! It is my understanding that at some point, for whatever reason, the interior cabin's charcoal filters were replaced with what is called a "combination filter"
, which is located in the engine compartment on the passanger side. I wish I had it though, because it makes all the sense in the world...I do believe that the E350 and E500 still have them, as they have an upgraded AC system...
Thanks for all of your helpful comments!
Member
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 121
Likes: 0
From: USA
2005 E320
I also have a musty odor from my AC upon startup in the morning.
Does anyone know if having the evaporator cleaned as per the latest DTB P-B-83.30/74j is considered a warranty repair?
My dealer wants to charge me more than $200 to clean the evap and replace the filter, even though my car in still under warranty.
Does anyone know if having the evaporator cleaned as per the latest DTB P-B-83.30/74j is considered a warranty repair?
My dealer wants to charge me more than $200 to clean the evap and replace the filter, even though my car in still under warranty.
Member
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 146
Likes: 12
From: Earth
E280 W211, X5 F15, X6 F16
I also have a musty odor from my AC upon startup in the morning.
Does anyone know if having the evaporator cleaned as per the latest DTB P-B-83.30/74j is considered a warranty repair?
My dealer wants to charge me more than $200 to clean the evap and replace the filter, even though my car in still under warranty.
Does anyone know if having the evaporator cleaned as per the latest DTB P-B-83.30/74j is considered a warranty repair?
My dealer wants to charge me more than $200 to clean the evap and replace the filter, even though my car in still under warranty.
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 15,901
Likes: 4,632
From: North Scottsdale, AZ
'71 Pinto
Member
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 121
Likes: 0
From: USA
2005 E320
Just wanted to post a quick follow-up to my stinky AC woes.
I presented the DTB (P-B-83.30/74j) to my SA and requested that they perform the repairs under warranty. Vehicle has ~41K miles. SA told me that the AC cleaning, which is required prior to replacing the heater box bottom and evap, is not covered under warranty. He compared it to other routine maintenance such as having an oil change.
I got the same answer from a seperate service department, a regional MB rep, and MBUSA. They would not budge on their position that I am responsible for paying to have the AC cleaned, even though the AC smell is a result of inferior (i.e, defective) parts being installed by the manufacturer.
Bottom line is...the cleaning cost me ~$110. It would have been more had I not had a 10% discount coupon. Neither MBUSA, the MB rep, nor 2 seperate service departments would admit that it should be cleaned under warranty.
Well, it has been about three weeks since the cleaning and the musty/moldy smell is already starting to come back. I live in Florida, so I have been giving the AC a good workout. I have 3 months from the date it was cleaned to report to MB that the odor has returned and to finally get the parts replaced under warranty.
I read that some of you got your service departments to clean your AC as part of the warranty repair. I don't know how you guys did it. I would have liked to have had a copy of someone's service receipt that showed their cleaning was performed under warranty.
I'm a new MB owner, and I'm learning really fast that it is tough to get MB to perform warranty repairs. It's a good thing I have my WIS to walk me through the DIY stuff.
I presented the DTB (P-B-83.30/74j) to my SA and requested that they perform the repairs under warranty. Vehicle has ~41K miles. SA told me that the AC cleaning, which is required prior to replacing the heater box bottom and evap, is not covered under warranty. He compared it to other routine maintenance such as having an oil change.
I got the same answer from a seperate service department, a regional MB rep, and MBUSA. They would not budge on their position that I am responsible for paying to have the AC cleaned, even though the AC smell is a result of inferior (i.e, defective) parts being installed by the manufacturer.
Bottom line is...the cleaning cost me ~$110. It would have been more had I not had a 10% discount coupon. Neither MBUSA, the MB rep, nor 2 seperate service departments would admit that it should be cleaned under warranty.
Well, it has been about three weeks since the cleaning and the musty/moldy smell is already starting to come back. I live in Florida, so I have been giving the AC a good workout. I have 3 months from the date it was cleaned to report to MB that the odor has returned and to finally get the parts replaced under warranty.
I read that some of you got your service departments to clean your AC as part of the warranty repair. I don't know how you guys did it. I would have liked to have had a copy of someone's service receipt that showed their cleaning was performed under warranty.
I'm a new MB owner, and I'm learning really fast that it is tough to get MB to perform warranty repairs. It's a good thing I have my WIS to walk me through the DIY stuff.
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