If your car’s air conditioning has started to smell damp, musty, or even burnt, it could be more than just an unpleasant whiff; it might be the early sign of a serious problem. Failing to act quickly could result in a much bigger bill later down the road.

While many drivers assume a bad smell is harmless, the reality is quite different. One of the most common causes of a foul smell from your air conditioning is the build-up of mould or bacteria inside the system. This tends to happen when the system hasn’t been used for a while or hasn’t been serviced properly.

Moisture inside the unit – particularly around the evaporator coil – creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Once that bacteria takes hold, every time you switch the air conditioning on, it circulates musty air through the cabin.

More concerning, however, is the presence of a burning or electrical smell, which may point to something more dangerous. That kind of odour can suggest overheating components or wiring faults. These are far more serious and shouldn’t be ignored – it’s definitely time to book in with a qualified mechanic.

If the smell is mild and not accompanied by any other warning signs, drivers can sometimes tackle it themselves. Cleaning the drain pan and evaporator coil may help reduce odours, especially if it’s simply stale air. But if the smell sticks around or worsens, don’t try to mask it – get a professional opinion before more damage is done.

Neglecting early warning signs can prove costly. Something as simple as mould can eventually damage components if left untreated. What could have been a low-cost clean-up might turn into a complete system replacement.

Often, what stops people from acting fast is the cost. We know that unexpected car repairs can cause financial strain, which is why we offer interest-free monthly payment plans. It means drivers can get their cars sorted straight away without putting it off due to cost.

The message is clear: if your air conditioning smells off, don’t ignore it. It might just need a clean – or it might be something much more serious. Either way, you’ll save money and stress by sorting it sooner rather than later.