GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Problem

Possible Cause

Correction

Musty Smell

    • Water leaks (body)
    • The evaporator drain is blocked.
    • There is mold or mildew on the evaporator core.
    • Locate and repair any water leaks. Refer to the appropriate repair procedure in Water Leaks.
    • Clean the evaporator drain.
    • Clean the evaporator. Refer to Odor Correction .

Coolant Smell

    • The heater core is leaking.
    • The heater core pipes or hoses are leaking.
    • Replace the heater core. Refer to Heater Core Replacement .
    • Replace the heater core pipes or hoses. Refer to Heater Hose Assembly Replacement .

Refrigerant Oil Smell

The evaporator core is leaking.

Replace the evaporator core. Refer to Air Conditioning Evaporator Core Replacement .

Mold/mildew odor problem--Under certain climate and operating conditions a musty odor can develop. The odor is caused by a microbial growth in the evaporator core. This odor is generally temporary, and as climate conditions change, the odor will disappear. Should the odor persist it may become necessary to clean the evaporator core with an appropriate cleaner.