Terrible smell from the vents

Could it be the cabin filter needs to be changed?

Thought of that too, I've put in a new cabin filter, still the same. I just ordered a new filter by Fram that is impregnated with carbon and baking soda, I will try, then post results.

The AC must moldy smell is common in many cars.

I've heard people and dealers use this product. It works very well:
http://www.amazon.com/Kool-It-96030-Evaporator-Heater-Cleaner/dp/B0007PHD0S
http://www.lubegard.com/~/C-204/Kool-It+Evaporator+%26+Heater+Foam+Cleaner

After you clean it, to minimize it from coming back, the best thing to do every time you are done using the AC, turn the AC OFF, and full blast non-circulate hot air for 1-2 min before turning off car. This will dry the evaporator unit to prevent mold build up.

You should also check if your AC drain is plugged. After you use your AC over an hour, you should see water dripping on the floor, which shows that your AC drain is working.

Thanks Sienna boy, just ordered the kool-it product, hoping it works, this is very upsetting being that this car is about a year a half old, and just over 10k miles.
Thanks for the info.

sienna boy said:

The AC must moldy smell is common in many cars.

I've heard people and dealers use this product. It works very well:
http://www.amazon.com/Kool-It-96030-Evaporator-Heater-Cleaner/dp/B0007PHD0S
http://www.lubegard.com/~/C-204/Kool-It+Evaporator+%26+Heater+Foam+Cleaner

After you clean it, to minimize it from coming back, the best thing to do every time you are done using the AC, turn the AC OFF, and full blast non-circulate hot air for 1-2 min before turning off car. This will dry the evaporator unit to prevent mold build up.

You should also check if your AC drain is plugged. After you use your AC over an hour, you should see water dripping on the floor, which shows that your AC drain is working.

Click to expand...

I have a 2012 Sienna that has started to have a mildew smell. I found the drain hose under the car and attempted to see if it was blocked. I used a piece of 12 gauge electrical wire and fished it up the hose. I was only able to get it in about 7-8 inches before it wouldn't go anymore. Should the wire just have entered the evap box unrestricted? The wire felt like it was blocked by some form of rubber

I did purchase a can of Kool it and wanted to make sure the drain was clear - thanks