My AC is smelling like vinegar!!! Please Help!

[ffffly]

Hey Everyone

I have an 02 I35. It has been nothing but a dream,but in the last week or so my AC has started to smell of vinegar. Ive looked online and other sites indicate that mold may be the cause...has anyone run into this before? If so, what worked? Other sites have mentioned intake vents and spraying lysol or some kind of disinfectant. If you have encountered this could you please provide specific details as to what you did. Im not the most mechanical person so if you could be specific that would be incredibly helpful

[jltibbs]

I would look at changing your In Cabin Air Filter (ICAF) first. If that does not work, you may need to look at finding a shop that can do a steam service on your ventilation system. I've included information to help with changing the ICAF.

[loystock]

Ensure the evaporator drain line is not clogged. After replacing the cabin air filter, spray BG Frigi-Fresh (or Ozium) into the AC inlet while in Fresh Air mode and MAX COOL. Switch between MAX COOL and MAX HEAT for a couple of minutes and spray Frigi-Fresh. The nasty odor should go away.

If odor persisted, you may need Einzett Klima Cleaner (1z-usa,com) for the evaporator. If there is a screen behind the air vent, you may have to drill a hole on the air duct close to the evaporator to apply the cleaner.

To avoid nasty odor in the future, replace cabin filter regularly, use Fresh Air mode as much as possible and switch to ECON mode on the last few minutes of your drive to allow frost/condensation to drain from your evaporator.

[ffffly]

Thank you both for the feedback...willgive it a shot. As for the ICAF i am having an issue getting the glovebox off. Any tips? Im afraid im going to break the wire that attaches it. Also do i need a new one or can i just clean the existing one? The glove box says to wash

thanks

[loystock]

I'm not sure what exactly is the problem with the glove box removal. As for the filter, if you haven;t done any replacement in a while, that filter would be full of dirt and even molds. Cabin filters are disposable so the one for I35 may be unique.

[Markc]

You have to remove the light from it's socket for the glove box. The air bag wire is held in by 2 plastic pawls that you push out, (squeeze them first with needle nose pliers). I'd replace the filter if there was any type of odour to it.

[ffffly]

Any tips on reliable sites or locations for the ICAF? Ive looked online and there are several websites claiming to sell the filter. I also looked at auto zone and pep boys and they dont seem to carry the filter on their sites. As always, any feedback is greatly appreciated.

[loystock]

I always buy OEM parts from IoS, one of NICO sponsors, 25% off MSRP - http://www.infinitipartsusa.com