Jul 29, 2022
How can I get the new car smell back in my car?

People love the smell of a new car. New car smell is one of the most iconic and instantly recognizable scents in the world. It’s a nostalgic reminder of all the exciting possibilities and adventures ahead. A fresh scent that fills your car with the promise of a new journey, each time you get in. But over time, that new car smell fades away, and the staleness of day-to-day errands and take-out sets in.

How can you get that “new car smell” back and bring that sense of vibrancy back inside your vehicle? Read on to find out how!

What “new car smell” actually is.

Contrary to popular belief, the new car smell is not simply a combination of all the materials used in the car’s interior. In fact, it’s largely created by the chemicals used in the production of plastics and adhesives used in cars. When exposed to air, it breaks down and releases a strong, distinct odor that is otherwise known as that “new car smell.”

You can get that new car smell back when getting your car serviced.

Why “new car smell” fades

The chemicals that create the new car smell start to dissipate quickly just weeks after a new vehicle has finished production.

With everyday travel to work, family trips, take-out stops, and family outings with the dog, the build-up of dirt, debris, food odor, and pet hair all contribute to a new but unpleasant smell that hides the smell you want.

Air freshener won’t bring it back

Plenty of air fresheners on the market may mask unpleasant odors for a time, but even if a “new car” air freshener has the right smell, it won’t actually bring it all back because the underlying cause behind the stale, stuffy, and now unpleasant odors emanating from inside your vehicle hasn’t been resolved.

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How to really get new car smell back

The simple solution: Keep the interior of your car really clean. Dirty interiors make for dirty smells. A clean, deodorized interior makes room for that “new car smell” to be more noticed, and keeps your car smelling fresher longer.

There are a few simple things you can do to get rid of bad-smelling odors and bring back that new car smell:

  • Get rid of any trash, clutter, or unnecessary items that are taking up space in your car.
  • Vacuum all the upholstery and floorboards to remove any odor-causing particles. Be sure to get behind, and around everything you can!
  • Wash all the soft surfaces in your car with a specialized cleaning product that is safe for your car’s interior. This will help to remove any remaining odor-causing particles.
  • Wipe down all the hard surfaces in your car with a safe cleaner.
  • Don’t forget to thoroughly clean the air vents and change your air filter to make sure your vehicle is circulating the cleanest air into your vehicle.

By following these simple steps, you can easily get rid of bad-smelling odors and bring back that unforgettable new car smell.