After using the air conditioner, you might notice a musty smell when you turn it off. It smells like someone left a wet towel in the vents. Gross, but harmless! This is caused by moisture buildup in the evaporator. The fix: run the fan on high with the A/C off for a few minutes before you park. Or buy a vent cleaner spray—it’s like Febreze for your car’s lungs.
If the smell persists, check the cabin air filter. It’s under the glovebox and costs ten bucks. Change it, and your car will smell like rainbows again. Or at least like nothing.
