Bad to smell at start

[Mitaka]

My car has developed a bad smell that comes out of the vents every time I start it. I would think this indicates some kind of moisture or old filter but the filter was supposedly replaced at the last service but I figure to ask if any of you have experienced that

[M6Havana]

Eggy smell or fuel smell?

[drmlee]

Originally Posted by 640m

Eggy smell or fuel smell?

I think hes referring to his a/c vent system. a lot of bmw's have a mildew smell when the a/c is first on.

[M6Havana]

I cant remember what this is but its really commin and we had it on a mini previously, let me look up what it is

[Mitaka]

Yes AC smell kind of sour mildew like... Is it matter of cleaning a component or replacing a filter. Perhaps the dealer saved themselves the trouble to replace the cabin filter at the first maintenance visit?

[drmdvl]

Are you using your a/c? If so, be sure to turn it off and run the fan for a few seconds before shutting your car off - prevents the condensation from the AC sitting and mildewing while parked.
I usually deactivate AC when I pull into my neighborhood and just let the fan run full blast until I park.
Good luck.

[Bored of Audi]

Its a bacterial smell similar to cats pee !

All you need to do is buy some ac anti bacterial spray, try Amazon.

Put your interior fan on full and ensure you are not on recycle and spray the anti bacterial spray into the ventilation air inlets, on the outside of the car so it sucks it in.

Job done and saved your self a small fortune at the steelers.