Hvac Odor

[1lola1]

I was wondering if anyone with an '03 or '04 ES has noticed a severe odor problem coming from the hvac system, particularly when using the defrost. Lexus replaced a certain filter with an RX filter, claiming it was a basic issue with most ES cars. This is not a sulfur smell. Thanks.

[steviej]

I got it last May/June. It happens about once per year. The cabin filter for the AC system gets mold and mildew in it. The moisture allows for growth. It is not a sulfur smell at all, it is more like dirty feet or old potatoe chips and onion rings.

Simple solution is to replace the filter. It is totally covered in your owner's manual and is a very simple DIY.

The filters themselves are very expensive from the dealer and they will charge you a hour minimum to change it.

I just bought two filters from www.irontoad.com for less then $30 each. You only need 5 minutes and a philips screwdriver to change it.

steveij

[gav_logan]

:D

Sweet deal!

I have that smell too, I just thought it was because I smoke cigars in the car! :P

[lexusk8]

I just bought two filters from www.irontoad.com for less then $30 each. You only need 5 minutes and a philips screwdriver to change it.

I wish mine were as easy as that. I just changed the A/C filter (2-pc assembly) from my '01 ES, which is located on the floor to the right of the gas pedal. Yes, it was a real b***h to remove the old filter and install the new one under such cramped space; I guess it's good that I'm a slim person! :P

[2GZ]

heyguys, there are many types of anti fungi deodorizers out there to kill the tame,but anoying smells. 1 thing... some of them are so strong that repeated use can and will remove the protective coating on the evap.core and cause it to rust.

if you have a repeating foul odor and tryed the filters and deodorizers then there

is a chance that the evaporator in the vehicle needs to be replaced due to performance. i've done it and had sucess.the best bandaid i ever used was a 50/50 mix of bleach and water, i use an atomizer and run it in the a/c matrix for about 20 min.CAUTION.. heavy use will stain the carpet-and do not get in the car until it has aired out for a few hours.i dont use more than a 1/4 cup of each and never stained a carpet. i do know people who did.

good luck my smelly friends