SL/R231: Mystery odor - 2015 SL400
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2015 SL400
Mystery odor - 2015 SL400
Friends;
For the last month, I've experienced a strange smell in the cabin that seems to come from the AC vents, whether the AC is running or not. My indy repair shop confirmed it is not R134. They also said no leaks or anything unusual could be found. No codes present, either. I replaced the cabin filter, but it didn't help. Can't detect the odor under the hood, only in the cabin.
I would describe it as a "chemical" smell, or maybe like a high end glue. Yes, it gives me another reason to drive with the top down, but I think something is wrong.
Since I don't really want to sniff glue whenever I'm driving, I'm wondering if any of you have any experience with this kind of thing?
Dave in Fort Myers, FL
For the last month, I've experienced a strange smell in the cabin that seems to come from the AC vents, whether the AC is running or not. My indy repair shop confirmed it is not R134. They also said no leaks or anything unusual could be found. No codes present, either. I replaced the cabin filter, but it didn't help. Can't detect the odor under the hood, only in the cabin.
I would describe it as a "chemical" smell, or maybe like a high end glue. Yes, it gives me another reason to drive with the top down, but I think something is wrong.
Since I don't really want to sniff glue whenever I'm driving, I'm wondering if any of you have any experience with this kind of thing?
Dave in Fort Myers, FL
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Joined: Dec 2015
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From: Hagerstown MD
2015 SL400; 2019 X5M40i
Then it's most likely something growing in your HVAC system. Mold can have a "chemical" smell. There are products available that can be used to kill the mold. Easy to do yourself.
Last edited by rmorin49; Nov 8, 2023 at 03:41 PM.
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Joined: Mar 2022
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From: Branford CT
13SL550,11CL550,61 190SL, 67 300SE, 54 220
Odor
Mercedes makes a chemical spray for the evaporator. The evaporator gets wet from condensation and dirt sticks to it. Then doesn’t dry and mold grows. Try the spray and change the cabin filter
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Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 45
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From: Williamsburg, VA
2013 SL550, 2011 Buick Enclave
I received notice for an extended warranty on the catalytic converter. Never had one go bad so don't know if a smell might be associated with it.
Last edited by visionatsea; Nov 13, 2023 at 07:23 PM.
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