Here I go again, a new owner with problem #2....

My AC smells like old socks or damp clothes...it's worse if I turn up the heat, and/or in Econ mode (no AC). This is a used 2004 TT that I just bought.

I wonder what it could be and if it will be covered under warranty?

Thanks for any ideas, everyone/anyone!

HillTT

 

Any noxious smells from the a/c system is covered under warranty, there are a couple of TSB's for that complaint.

 

Even if the car is out of warranty? Well you might still be in warranty if you haven't gone over 50,000 miles. But anyways, the source of your problem is likely to be the in cabin filter, it might have leaves or a small dead rodent/reptile in it. Also check your ducting around the windshield wipers and remove and accumulated leaves and debris (even under the plastic firewall shroud).

 

Thanks for the advice. What is a "TSB" ? Tech Service Bulletin? What are the causes listed in these bulletins?

I'm still under warranty until Feb 08, I only have 34K on it. I will check the ducting and so on.

 

a/c odor is actually caused by a mold growing in theevap. box, normally caused by excessive moisture from a plugged evap. water drain line.

 

you could always try to change out the cabon filter or spray some disenfectant into the cabin filter. i also heard theres a spray that you spray on the condensor or somewhere along the ac lines and it cleans up the smell.