We’ve all had moments where we get in the car and it smells a bit… off, haven’t we? Whether it was a bit of food forgotten in the backseat or a coffee left in the cupholder, there’s a number of reasons your car can have an odd smell in it. But musky moisture can perhaps be the worst smell of them all, often being due to excess water sitting stagnant in the cabin. During the summer months, this is arguably the last scent you need inside your car before a long drive, so it’s important to prevent it. Below are a few ways to avoid this happening to you in the future.

Check Seals

With an old car, door and window seals can become worn out, which can allow moisture to get inside the cabin during a storm, or even when washing the car. As the sun beats into the car, this moisture can cause humidity and foul smells as it sits and mixes with anything inside that may have been dirty — such as your carpets and mats. Test in specific areas to see if moisture is making its way through the seals by having someone sit inside as you hose off certain sides of the car.

Gel Packs & Cat Litter

If you know you’re getting moisture in the cabin (or plan on it), keep something inside the car that can absorb it quickly. Silica gel packs are great for this, and chances are, you can find a few of these for free lying in old boxes around your house. Additionally, you can fill an old sock with cat litter and keep it somewhere in the car for added scent, and reduced moisture.

Of course, if your car is holding in moisture, it might be worth it to replace seals and see if you can find the area in which it’s getting inside. This moisture can end up seeping into the leather and cloth, which can eventually cause premature wear and mold growth. Should you be fearful of this, bring your car to a shop that can potentially diagnose the issue and come up with a solution.

Southport Automotive is Fairfield County’s premier service station for all things Automotive. In business since 1981, we’ve helped get thousands of Connecticut residents back on the road faster, and for longer. To learn more about how we can help your vehicle stay in its best shape, please give us a call at 203-259-3839. For more tips and tricks, make sure to like us on Facebook!