I've had my 2010 Honda Fit Sport for almost a year now. Just recently, the ventilation system has been giving off a horrible odor - liken it to a high school boys' locker room or a bath towel that hasn't been washed for weeks. Gross! This happens when I switch from A/C to fan. What's causing this and can I fix it myself? If not, does anyone know if it's covered under manufacturer warranty? Thanks!

-Fit Newb

 

Be positive that you run with the fresh air selector in place = NOT recirculate. Then run the AC for a while with the heat knob on HOT. It might be enough to get you out of the locker room. I always run on fresh air, unless I'm behind a spewing bus.

 

Have you pulled out the Cabin Air Filter and taken a look (smell) at it? Maybe it got wet/moldy?

I haven't actually bothered looking for mine yet but usually they're hidden in a compartment behind the glovebox

 

change the cabin filter. you could use something like this Air Conditioner Odor Remover | einszett Car Care Products, but lysol has worked on my in-laws cars.

To prevent that smell from showing its ugly head again, kill the AC 30 seconds - a minute before you reach your destination. Run the fan 3/4 to full blast. i forgot where i picked up that tidbit a long time ago, but none of my cars have that AC funk. rental cars are the worst :barf:

 

Your AC condensor might be growing mold which could be the issue. There are cleaners out there that can be used to clean this out. Might try that.

 

Usually caused by dampness in your AC system when you turn off the car after extended AC use. As KC already posted, running the heater in HOT temp and Vent setting not Recirc, for a while will take care of it. I spray Lysol (or air freshner of choice) on my cowl intake when I do this. Just me.