Foul smell when starting 2017 Expedition

[Stotadude]

I have about 70K miles and I've noticed recently I get a nasty smell (like cow manure) when it first starts but then it dissipates. Any ideas what it is and how to get rid of it?

 

[bobmbx]

Inside or outside? Ventilation system on or off (heat or AC won't matter at start)?

I'm guessing a moldy evaporator. Virtually every AC evaporator will produce that smell over time, and in cars its usually around late summer/early fall when people notice it the most. Sometimes the cure is as simple as letting the engine warm up and then blasting the heater at full for 10-15 minutes to kill the mold/mildew on the coils.

 

[Dorzak]

Along with the burning off dust smell when you first run the heater.

 

[bobmbx]

Along with the burning off dust smell when you first run the heater.

Ah yes....the trusty dusty "whats on fire!" smell.

 

[Stotadude]

bobmbx

I leave my heat/ac on auto at 70 most of the time. Are you saying to kick up the set temp as high as it will go and run it for 15 minutes?

 

[bobmbx]

bobmbx

I leave my heat/ac on auto at 70 most of the time. Are you saying to kick up the set temp as high as it will go and run it for 15 minutes?

Yep. ANd it doesn't hurt to run that hot air through as many air ducts as possible. Don't forget the rear unit, either.

 

[Stotadude]

Ok, thanks. Will get on that tomorrow.

 

[Dorzak]

Ok, thanks. Will get on that tomorrow.

expect the smell to get worse for a bit then get better.

 

[Stotadude]

I ran my heat on high for 15 mins today and hope I am on the road to resolution. Thank you.

 

[rjdelp7]

Lysol 'linen' spray works good. Remove the cabin filter and spray into hvac, air intake with the fan on high.