Unknown or Persistent Odor Diagnostics for Cars

If your car smells bad and you can’t figure out why, our unknown or persistent odor diagnostics service can help. We locate the source of hidden odors using a step-by-step process that goes beyond surface cleaning—targeting what’s causing the smell so we can eliminate it permanently.

When to Use This Service

• The odor has no obvious source

• You've cleaned the car but the smell keeps returning

• The smell gets worse with heat, moisture, or AC use

• You recently bought a used car with a lingering scent

• DIY solutions (like air fresheners) haven’t worked

Common Hidden Odor Sources We Diagnose

• Mold or mildew in carpet padding or HVAC vents

• Spilled fluids soaked into seat foam or trunk lining

• Old food, vomit, or pet accidents under or between seats

• Fuel, oil, or chemical residue

• Dead rodents or insects in air ducts or panels

• Leftover smoke residue from cigarettes or cannabis

Our Odor Diagnostic Process

1. Full Interior Inspection

• We check under seats, inside trunk, in door pockets, and along floorboards

• Moisture and mold detection tools used when needed

2. HVAC System Check

• We inspect air filters and ductwork for trapped odors, mold, or pests

3. Material Analysis

• We identify if the odor has penetrated padding, insulation, or plastic trim

4. Odor Testing and Source Confirmation

• If necessary, we use UV lights, thermal imaging, or ozone pre-treatment to isolate the odor source

5. Removal Plan and Optional Treatment

• Once we find the cause, we recommend cleaning, ozone, enzyme, or other odor-specific treatments

What You Can Expect

• Accurate identification of the odor source

• Clear explanation of how to eliminate it

• Optional full-service odor removal if needed

• Safe, non-destructive diagnostics

• Service time: typically 1–2 hours

FAQ

What if you can't find the source?
In most cases, we identify it. If not, we explain what’s been ruled out and recommend next steps.

Will this service remove the odor?
Diagnostics doesn’t include treatment, but we can handle removal right after if approved.

Is it worth diagnosing if I’ve already tried cleaning?
Yes. Many odor sources are hidden below surfaces or in vents where DIY cleaning can’t reach.

Serving Los Angeles, Riverside and Orange County