AC Smell 30-Day Follow-up... ruclips.net/video/6Q8fkrOCegM/видео.html *Get Your Tesla Accessories!* 👉🏻 evanmichiels.com/general-2 $1000 OFF your Tesla Here 👉🏻 ts.la/evan87711 Foam Cleaner 👉🏻 amzn.to/3JIAfyd 👉🏻 OR amzn.to/3j9O8ex Cabin Air Filter Replacement Model 3 👉🏻 amzn.to/3x8erGF Torx Screwdriver T20 👉🏻amzn.to/2TgA30S Auto Trim Removal Prybar Set 👉🏻 amzn.to/37wStjM
Evan, we've been following your videos and want to say thank you for helping put the word out! We've updated our video and mention using two cans as well. ruclips.net/video/OtIVBc4yv_M/видео.html
I’m surprised there isn’t a lawsuit. They are taking lots of money from people for a design flaw that is permanent. An engineer on Reddit broke it down and said they made the drip horizontal which is ass backwards
I could be wrong on my opinion, But I think what is happening is Air condition coil is too close to filter, OEM filters hugs too close to air condition coil, that lead to moisture and mildew smell, some of the aftermarket filter might be better filter then OEM, after market filter has rubber edge that would keep distance from air condition coil.
Hey all, super easy fix I just did on my 3 and Y (easier on the Y). I got the Tapdes filters, activated carbon, and didn’t do anything but replace the factory filters. No spray, nadda, just 10 mins per car changing the cabin air filters. Done! No smell, and the old filters were pretty gross after only 12 and 6 months respectively.
I had Tesla Mobile Service come out and do this procedure, and I can certify that the procedure outlined in this video is EXACTLY what the service technician did. Spot on. So, this is a safe and proper procedure. A few pointers... To get the torx screw out more easily, the tech had a very small ratchet with a extended torx end on it (about 4" long). The tech said the drain hole is located at the bottom of the air box, on the driver side, towards the rear of the car. So, do spray in the spot this video says to spray to. Also, my own personal, possible theory...I park in my driveway, front-end pointing downhill. If the drain hole is in the rearward end of the air box, possibly the liquid is pooling in the front-side (down-hill facing) end of the air box and creating the problem. Maybe not though. Also, I always drive with recirculate off, and I'm always on the latest software update, and it still happened after 9 months. So, this is likely a permanent issue. Better get used to doing this procedure.
I just did this and it’s super easy. Your link to foam cleaner is a cheaper one at $6 and seems to be primarily for home A/C units but works perfectly for cars too, except you don’t get the long flexible hose to direct it. However just point towards the condenser which is still easy. Plus there’s a lot more in the can than the Kool it so you have enough to do this a few times. I no longer smell anything but it’s only been one day.
@@jasonhunter5790 smell came back. Had climate set on manual mode with lower fan to reduce battery I thought. Reading that can cause the A/C to not circulate enough to dry things out when shut down the car. Had tesla do the service at $142 over the winter. Seemed to fix but now it’s 90+ degrees it’s starting to come back again. Now reading don’t hit recirc mode for A/C. Will see if that helps. Seems to be an issue with these cars and should not be occurring so easily.
Nice video Evan. Thought I might add a few comments after completing filter change yesterday. Care removing wire from speaker if you decide to do this - if the connection breaks and you can't fix it, your Tesla may shut down - this is because alerts and alarm tones often only come through this one speaker and vehicle won't tolerate relay disconnect here. I recommend cutting off tip of Klime spray tube at angle and mark along the side of tube, from tip back to can so you can effectively position the tube to aim and shoot the foam against the condenser surface - marching across the surface bottom to top. You are not going to be able to see exactly what you are doing, but a cell phone camera video with lamp on can help you confirm that you care covering the entire surface. Using this technique I was able to cover the entire surface 4 or five times with one can - each time letting it sit for 10 minutes or so to let the foam settle into the fins and then turning fan on for a few (replace the filter cover before turning fan on!) to pull residual foam or solution through. The drain vent is approximately located midline undercarriage between line drawn between aft portion of front wheels. After the final application I let it sit for awhile and then ran the fan for maybe 10-15min or so. I used "Breatheasy" paper/charcoal filters instead of the more expensive HEPAs because, at least in the Midwest, this will need to be done yearly (according to tech) and I don't see huge benefit to higher filtration (unless I'm in wildfire country). Removing side panel was PIA - couple of white clips pulled off but fortunately didn't break. I applied silicone grease before replacing to maybe make easier next time. The under-glovebox panel replacement was most difficult for me because I have tri-focals... I might mention here that I couldn't get to this for awhile and temporized by pulling the large cover in the frunk that covers the fresh air intake plenum and placed a medium sized tupperware basin into the plenum with paper towels (to increase surface area) soaked with upholstery type Fabreze (no scent) and ran fan for a few hours - solved the problem for 6 weeks. I would never use anything else like Lysol or other chemicals - Fabreze is perfect for this purpose, but it doesn't last of course, nothing does.
Evan Michiels can you please add a correction to the video? Some RUclipsrs do it with subtitles or whatever. I almost bought a T15, but luckily I decided to check the comments section. Thank you.
Thanks so much! This was really helpful and I went and did it by myself shortly afterward! the hardest part I found was putting the t-15 screw BACK into the slot. lol. I had to lay upside down to make it happen. lol.
Thanks man, very helpful; I just ordered the stuff to do it myself. In Canada it was $50 CAD for a can of Klima and $49.28 CAD for two filters (incl. tax, free shipping). I might not need the filters but I don't want to open it up twice: if I don't need them I'll just save them. Several comments from Tesla owners on the Amazon page saying Klima worked for them. "Klima-Cleaner Air Conditioner Cleaner - 10 fl oz (300 ML), 8.5 Ounce/250 Milliliter"
All, I thought I would share my findings. I followed Evans suggestions. Thank you Evan for all your research!!! I have done this about 3 times. Once a year for the 3 years I have owned the car. Once myself, twice with Tesla. Every year here in Atlanta by August, the smell is bad. This time I did a few things different. But a big obvious observation. My old Air Filters captured a large portion of the mildewy smell, but the big question how do we prevent this from happening again. After applying the Foam Cleaner and running the fan for 10 minutes, I stuck my hand over the coil and the surrounding area. I noticed it was still very wet. I decided to let it dry over night. In the morning I noticed it was still wet. I ran the air for 10 minutes (no acc) and that seemed to dry it out. I then ran the air conditioner for 10 minutes and the inside and the evaporator was wet again. I ran the air no ac for 10 minutes on high and it was dry. So my plan moving forward is keep the AC off until I need it. After I use it, run the air on high for 10 minutes to remove the moisture. I will report back in several months and let you guys know if this really helps. BTW, one other thing i am doing this time. I applied Concrobium (mildew preventer) to my evaporator coils and I lightly sprayed the filters as well. Hope this helps someone. Crazy we have to do all this.
Actually, that is a pretty common recommendation for all cars and ACs in general. When you run an AC, the cold evaporator coils condense water. It is recommended to run fan for last few minutes to get the coils back to room temperature to stop condensing water and dry it a bit. This strategy prevents mildew, but most people don't know.
@@Allenw154 Tesla released an update a while ago, when you leave the ac in "Auto" mode, the fan will automatically kick in after you leave the car to address this issue, but as you can see it is not enough to get rid of the moisture for some of us. I am trying something new I wanted to share. I am using the Tessie App and IFTTT to schedule my car to run the heat once a day at night around 11 pm on high for 15 min. Lets see if that won't do the trick.
I ordered my Model Y last month and intend to take delivery in November 2020 but hope this is not an issue with this car. However, I had this happen to me in other cars so it's not only a Tesla problem. And yes the culprit is the condensation does not evaporate on the condenser coils once car stops running and over time, mildew builds up and you get that awful smell. I have been told best solution is to allow fresh air to run in vents for a minute or two before you turn car off to dry up any remaining liquid or condensation.
Great video. I used it for the second time today to change my filters. In my car it’s a T20 screw. You may have mentioned it to be a T15 screw. Btw, I used small pliers to hold the screw until I had it started with the screw driver. That worked quite well to avoid dropping the screw (which I did the first time).
Great vid. Thanks. WIll attempt this soon. I think this needs to be done more frequently cause our AC's run way more that other cars because of cabin overheat protection.
The best way to deal with the T-20 Torx bolt is with a Torx socket kit and driver. I used a 1/4" driver and Torx set. Then it's easier to loosen or tighten without having to reset in an awkward position with the tool included in the filter kit.
Please note that bottom filter tab will prevent you from removing the top filter. You must bend that bottom tab out and down in order to remove the top filter. I thought something was wrong with my filter canister at first til I figured this out.
Awesome video thank you! Please note that the 2021 and newer models that made some changes. The screw is on the bottom side and secondly no high voltage wire is attached to the filter cap. Easier task now.
Fantastic video and truly appreciated! Thanks for the follow-up video as well! Order my TWO cans of the cleaner and filters and looking forward to getting rid of my smell. Thanks!
Thank you for this! I also get my MY serviced in Raleigh. Didn't want to make the drive from GSO just for this and seems easy enough. Thanks again for posting!
Another good tip is to turn your ac off and let the fan run for 5-7 mins to dry the condensation from the coil…if not the moisture from the coil will get that mildew smell the same way clothes get if you forget to get them out of the washer…lol. Great video by the way ..👍🏼
Evan, forgot to get back here to thank you for this vid. Except for the Torx 15 (is really 20) was perfect. Now have my 2nd Model 3 and ready to do it to this one. Guess they improved the location and access to the bolt (thanks Tesla).
Do take more care of the wires for the light and speaker. after releasing the cover hold it with one hand and undo the connections with the other hand. Do not set the cover in the footwell like that with wires at strain. Be careful. Its an expensive car, if you bought a tesla and you are frugal and cheap like me get the plastic interior removal kit. They are like 10 dollars.. you can also set the new filters on top of each other and use them as a prop for the cover, the height is perfect. Good luck and keep pushing that accelerator
I use it all the time on my Toyota. I put it up the evaporator drain. Smells good. Every change of season. I have to replace my air blend door. It does not shut fully. Interesting didn't know Tesla 3 had these problems.
This was a great video thank u for sharing 👍🏻 my M3 had only three retainer clips and the orange wire on outside of filter box was not present (may be due to AWD variant)
Great video Evan, Thanks! I'm going to try it this weekend. I would like to know why you need to remove the top panel when all the work is related to the side panel where the filters are located?
Thank you guys! Will buy the new ones. In fact, I didn't pay much attention to other cars if they will have such smells as well. Why Tesla has this noticeable smell? My friend's Tesla also has smells. Anyway, I will recommend your video to my friends who need this. Thanks again.
Took delivery of my M3 4 months ago and the AC started smelling like socks 3 months in! Think I’m just going to pay the $150 for them to do this.. probably the most disappointing aspect of owning the vehicle thus far.
Holy crap, that T15 could not be placed in a more inconvenient and inaccessible position if they tried. It took me 20 minutes to get it out, and I couldn't get it all of the way back in. It should have either been at the bottom of the cover, or replaced by a plastic tab. I would say that whoever designed that ought to be staked out under a Falcon 9, but a bettter (and worse) punishment would be to condemn them to cleaning and replacing filters, using hand tools, from now until the end of time. Or longer.
Thanks for the video. One observation, you didn't need to remove the top cover.. note you put the to cover first after you completed the procedure, therefore no need to remove the top 😁
@@EMtesla1 oh nevermind, I thought you removed the top cover so that you can remove the side panel! In the video you removed the top first and you also put it first so I thought it wasn't necessary. Now I understand that the top cover is important to remove to remove the filter (not side cover). Thanks for the clarification Evan.
I need to do this to my car and I'm only 7000 miles with it. I live in Houston so its humid out here. I was thinking about getting the EV tuning HEPA filters.
Evan, can't you also use the drain pipe under car? Basically insert the foam tube through the drain outlet into the evaporator and then push the foam in. I do that on my Prius and it works fine..
Evan Michiels hmm, that’s a little frustrating but aight guess it’s better to at least have a solution than no solution at all. From how many times I’ve heard of this problem, I’m surprised Tesla hasn’t spend ample resources into fixing it. Of all the minor problems I heard about Teslas, this is probably one of the most pervasive issues and one that would seem to be fairly simple to fix.
Great vid Evan, I have the same issue with the smell. Since tesla recommends this cleaner I’m guessing it also kills all the bacteria/mold. I was thinking you could have also sprayed that location with Lysol to kill off any remaining bacteria/mold/mildew before putting back the filters? Better location for spraying than using the frunk intake because filters get it first before the evaporators.
Yea, unfortunately I did spray lysol through the frunk with the filters in place and it did not work. I think it would be pretty difficult to spray lysol in there unless you had the fans running and sprayed it in through the intake vent under the passenger side. I will surely follow up with another video to see how well/long this foam cleaner holds up. Thanks for your comment!
Evan Michiels where is the internal intake of the AC? Can you show that in the next vid? Been looking for it but I have not opened the panels. That probably is the best place to spray the Lysol from and let it pass through the entire system without the filters. I may try this and do both the Kool It and Lysol.
@@L3xAce The intake is where the cabin filters are located, so once you take off that cover, remove the filters under the passenger side, and turn the fans on high you will feel the air suck into that slot where you can spray the lysol. I would personally just remove the filters, re-attach the side panel where the filters are and then spray from the intake panel under the frunk hood.
I found it odd that there is only one screw (T15) at the top holding the filter compartment lid in place , the bottom does not snap into anything and can be opened freely by moving the orange wire that is mounted on it. Can anyone confirm? Also, you don't really need to disconnect the two wires (audio and light I think), as long as you're careful to move it out of the way.
Yeah, the Lubegard stuff is a ripoff. They underfill the can. Probably 2-3 oz instead of 6oz. Get Klima-Cleaner instead, way more spray for only few bucks more. Might have to snip the spray nozzle if you don't like their tri-spray pattern. Those filters are alot closer to the evaporator than on an ICE car, though. I dont know if that is optimal.
When you say run the "fan", you are referring to NO A/C on correct? notice that you had A/C running at the beginning of video? PS. How are owners NOT upset that this is acceptable? I just paid $152 from Tesla to fix this smell due to their POOR design???
It is unfortunate that Tesla will not pay for this fix. Especially for owning the car for only 4 months. To answer your question, I ran the fan with the AC on, I don’t think it matters as long as you have air running through the coils.
Should this additional unexpected expense be factored into the Model 3's annual operating costs? Periodic 4-month cleaning exercise or $152 x 3 times a year expense = $456/Annually? Let us know how long the Koolit solution lasts before you need to clean again, if you could...great Video!
I just posted a update on this a couple days ago, check out that video on my channel. Also Tesla sent out a software update to run the fans longer after you exit the car so the coils dry out, I believe that was 2019.12.x.
You made a great point Chris Nguyen. I think you need to run the air without AC so it doesn’t have the coils freezing and capturing the solution instead than drying with air blowing.
All cars can suffer from this issue, especially in warm humid climates, not unique to Tesla! What IS unique though is that Tesla have proactively changed software to run the fan a while when you park to dry the coils out.
You made this look too easy! I just did it and I struggled! The wire to the speaker broke off and now I can not get it reattached. Great video however! Recommend for very young and nimble people!
You put the top panel back before replacing the side panel. It doesn't seem like the top panel needs removing at all if the side panel can go in while the top panel is installed. Did I miss something?
When putting everything back, shouldn't you put the side panel on first before the bottom panel? Or else why even remove the bottom panel when you can just remove the side panel to access the filters?
@@EMtesla1 thanks Evan. But what I don't understand is when you removed the panels, you started with the bottom panel underneath the glove compartment first, then the side panel. However, when you placed the panels back, you placed the bottom panel on first again, then the side panel. Shouldn't the order be reversed?
@@EMtesla1 OK. Good to know. I thought the bottom panel interfered with the side panel not realizing it only interferes with removing and installing the air filters. Thanks.
I got a model 3 in September of 2020, and recently got a brief smell when starting the AC. So about 8 months in. Hopefully you don't experience it with the newer model 3 revision.
I gave this a try and did one step further and cleaned it twice, once through the evaporator side as shown in this video and the drain side under the frunk. Unfortunately the smell came back. There seems to be some issue where my model 3 no longer drips water, but I'm not sure why. The cleaner drips through, but i never see water dripping anymore.
Mine still seems to be draining water just fine, what part of the country do you reside? I know very humid climates have suffered the most with the smell in their AC.
@@EMtesla1 I can't find the tab :/, I think I might've broke the plastic piece too, I have no idea how to disconnect this cable. The light one has a clear tab but the speaker seems like just stuck in. Model 3 2021
So, you undid the glovebox area, then you pulled off the side. But when you reassembled it, you reattached the glovebox area, then did the side. Shouldn’t the reassembly have been to do the side, THEN the glovebox? What’s even the point of taking off the glovebox?
I found it easier to reinstall the side panel first, and then the panel under the glove box. I used the same cleaner and new filter, and smell came back in a week. Running another can of Kool It again. it's been exactly two years, and my 2020 model 3 was brand new. This is Arizona btw
I find it a little phucked that with all the cars I’ve ever bought, all I’ve ever had to do was change the cabin filter and now we have to clean the coil or pay the dealer to do it? Phuuuuuuuuuck that. Thanks to COVID, I haven’t had my sense of smell since last November so I suppose IF there’s a smell, I won’t notice it.
AC Smell 30-Day Follow-up...
ruclips.net/video/6Q8fkrOCegM/видео.html
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Evan, we've been following your videos and want to say thank you for helping put the word out! We've updated our video and mention using two cans as well. ruclips.net/video/OtIVBc4yv_M/видео.html
The can is not available on Amazon any longer. Ditto for the cabin air filter. Any good recommended alternatives?
@@WilbertIsRandom please see the updated links.. thanks!
I have NEVER had to do this for a car prior to owning a Tesla! This is something, THEY should be fixing
I’m surprised there isn’t a lawsuit. They are taking lots of money from people for a design flaw that is permanent. An engineer on Reddit broke it down and said they made the drip horizontal which is ass backwards
I could be wrong on my opinion, But I think what is happening is Air condition coil is too close to filter, OEM filters hugs too close to air condition coil, that lead to moisture and mildew smell, some of the aftermarket filter might be better filter then OEM, after market filter has rubber edge that would keep distance from air condition coil.
Supposed to be a vertical drip but Tesla fcked up and made it horizontal. Can’t believe there hasn’t been a lawsuit yet
Doing this now on my MY after 2 years. Thank you!
Hey all, super easy fix I just did on my 3 and Y (easier on the Y). I got the Tapdes filters, activated carbon, and didn’t do anything but replace the factory filters. No spray, nadda, just 10 mins per car changing the cabin air filters. Done! No smell, and the old filters were pretty gross after only 12 and 6 months respectively.
Awesome first video man! I just bought some kool it today. You can get it at O' Reillys for $11.99 FYI
thanks for your feedback! More videos to come!
I had Tesla Mobile Service come out and do this procedure, and I can certify that the procedure outlined in this video is EXACTLY what the service technician did. Spot on. So, this is a safe and proper procedure. A few pointers... To get the torx screw out more easily, the tech had a very small ratchet with a extended torx end on it (about 4" long). The tech said the drain hole is located at the bottom of the air box, on the driver side, towards the rear of the car. So, do spray in the spot this video says to spray to. Also, my own personal, possible theory...I park in my driveway, front-end pointing downhill. If the drain hole is in the rearward end of the air box, possibly the liquid is pooling in the front-side (down-hill facing) end of the air box and creating the problem. Maybe not though. Also, I always drive with recirculate off, and I'm always on the latest software update, and it still happened after 9 months. So, this is likely a permanent issue. Better get used to doing this procedure.
Thanks for your helpful comment!
I just did this and it’s super easy. Your link to foam cleaner is a cheaper one at $6 and seems to be primarily for home A/C units but works perfectly for cars too, except you don’t get the long flexible hose to direct it. However just point towards the condenser which is still easy. Plus there’s a lot more in the can than the Kool it so you have enough to do this a few times. I no longer smell anything but it’s only been one day.
Update?
@@jasonhunter5790 smell came back. Had climate set on manual mode with lower fan to reduce battery I thought. Reading that can cause the A/C to not circulate enough to dry things out when shut down the car. Had tesla do the service at $142 over the winter. Seemed to fix but now it’s 90+ degrees it’s starting to come back again. Now reading don’t hit recirc mode for A/C. Will see if that helps. Seems to be an issue with these cars and should not be occurring so easily.
@@jefflindeval thank up for updating us. I'm not alone in this woe!
Nice video Evan. Thought I might add a few comments after completing filter change yesterday. Care removing wire from speaker if you decide to do this - if the connection breaks and you can't fix it, your Tesla may shut down - this is because alerts and alarm tones often only come through this one speaker and vehicle won't tolerate relay disconnect here.
I recommend cutting off tip of Klime spray tube at angle and mark along the side of tube, from tip back to can so you can effectively position the tube to aim and shoot the foam against the condenser surface - marching across the surface bottom to top. You are not going to be able to see exactly what you are doing, but a cell phone camera video with lamp on can help you confirm that you care covering the entire surface. Using this technique I was able to cover the entire surface 4 or five times with one can - each time letting it sit for 10 minutes or so to let the foam settle into the fins and then turning fan on for a few (replace the filter cover before turning fan on!) to pull residual foam or solution through. The drain vent is approximately located midline undercarriage between line drawn between aft portion of front wheels. After the final application I let it sit for awhile and then ran the fan for maybe 10-15min or so.
I used "Breatheasy" paper/charcoal filters instead of the more expensive HEPAs because, at least in the Midwest, this will need to be done yearly (according to tech) and I don't see huge benefit to higher filtration (unless I'm in wildfire country). Removing side panel was PIA - couple of white clips pulled off but fortunately didn't break. I applied silicone grease before replacing to maybe make easier next time. The under-glovebox panel replacement was most difficult for me because I have tri-focals...
I might mention here that I couldn't get to this for awhile and temporized by pulling the large cover in the frunk that covers the fresh air intake plenum and placed a medium sized tupperware basin into the plenum with paper towels (to increase surface area) soaked with upholstery type Fabreze (no scent) and ran fan for a few hours - solved the problem for 6 weeks. I would never use anything else like Lysol or other chemicals - Fabreze is perfect for this purpose, but it doesn't last of course, nothing does.
On my 2019 M3 the screw bit is a T20, not T15. Thanks for the video it was very helpful!
Yea sorry it’s a torx 20 for my 2018 M3 too I just said it wrong. Thank you!
Evan Michiels can you please add a correction to the video? Some RUclipsrs do it with subtitles or whatever. I almost bought a T15, but luckily I decided to check the comments section. Thank you.
I’ll see what I can do! Thank you!
Confirm, T20 on my 2017 M3
Thanks so much! This was really helpful and I went and did it by myself shortly afterward! the hardest part I found was putting the t-15 screw BACK into the slot. lol. I had to lay upside down to make it happen. lol.
Your instructions were right on! I was able to install the Tesla carbon filters and clean the coils as you instructed. No more smell! Thank you!
I just did this too and used the same product. Worked well and smells much better!
Thanks man, very helpful; I just ordered the stuff to do it myself. In Canada it was $50 CAD for a can of Klima and $49.28 CAD for two filters (incl. tax, free shipping). I might not need the filters but I don't want to open it up twice: if I don't need them I'll just save them. Several comments from Tesla owners on the Amazon page saying Klima worked for them.
"Klima-Cleaner Air Conditioner Cleaner - 10 fl oz (300 ML), 8.5 Ounce/250 Milliliter"
All, I thought I would share my findings. I followed Evans suggestions. Thank you Evan for all your research!!! I have done this about 3 times. Once a year for the 3 years I have owned the car. Once myself, twice with Tesla. Every year here in Atlanta by August, the smell is bad. This time I did a few things different. But a big obvious observation. My old Air Filters captured a large portion of the mildewy smell, but the big question how do we prevent this from happening again.
After applying the Foam Cleaner and running the fan for 10 minutes, I stuck my hand over the coil and the surrounding area. I noticed it was still very wet. I decided to let it dry over night.
In the morning I noticed it was still wet. I ran the air for 10 minutes (no acc) and that seemed to dry it out.
I then ran the air conditioner for 10 minutes and the inside and the evaporator was wet again. I ran the air no ac for 10 minutes on high and it was dry.
So my plan moving forward is keep the AC off until I need it. After I use it, run the air on high for 10 minutes to remove the moisture. I will report back in several months and let you guys know if this really helps.
BTW, one other thing i am doing this time. I applied Concrobium (mildew preventer) to my evaporator coils and I lightly sprayed the filters as well.
Hope this helps someone. Crazy we have to do all this.
Actually, that is a pretty common recommendation for all cars and ACs in general. When you run an AC, the cold evaporator coils condense water. It is recommended to run fan for last few minutes to get the coils back to room temperature to stop condensing water and dry it a bit. This strategy prevents mildew, but most people don't know.
@@Allenw154 Tesla released an update a while ago, when you leave the ac in "Auto" mode, the fan will automatically kick in after you leave the car to address this issue, but as you can see it is not enough to get rid of the moisture for some of us. I am trying something new I wanted to share.
I am using the Tessie App and IFTTT to schedule my car to run the heat once a day at night around 11 pm on high for 15 min. Lets see if that won't do the trick.
I ordered my Model Y last month and intend to take delivery in November 2020 but hope this is not an issue with this car. However, I had this happen to me in other cars so it's not only a Tesla problem. And yes the culprit is the condensation does not evaporate on the condenser coils once car stops running and over time, mildew builds up and you get that awful smell. I have been told best solution is to allow fresh air to run in vents for a minute or two before you turn car off to dry up any remaining liquid or condensation.
I picked up my 2021 Model Y in March, same issue in one month. Called the shop, told me not under warranty
@@rabinzx 😮
Great video. I used it for the second time today to change my filters. In my car it’s a T20 screw. You may have mentioned it to be a T15 screw. Btw, I used small pliers to hold the screw until I had it started with the screw driver. That worked quite well to avoid dropping the screw (which I did the first time).
Thanks for the tutorial man. Just did my AC today.
Great vid. Thanks. WIll attempt this soon. I think this needs to be done more frequently cause our AC's run way more that other cars because of cabin overheat protection.
The best way to deal with the T-20 Torx bolt is with a Torx socket kit and driver. I used a 1/4" driver and Torx set. Then it's easier to loosen or tighten without having to reset in an awkward position with the tool included in the filter kit.
Please note that bottom filter tab will prevent you from removing the top filter. You must bend that bottom tab out and down in order to remove the top filter. I thought something was wrong with my filter canister at first til I figured this out.
Awesome video thank you! Please note that the 2021 and newer models that made some changes. The screw is on the bottom side and secondly no high voltage wire is attached to the filter cap. Easier task now.
Good to know! Thanks for sharing!
Hey Raleigh/Durham here too!
Thanks for the upload! Super helpful even more than the one the i1Tesla dude uploaded. Subscribed! :)
Thank you!
Hey great video. Will try this my car. I only have 6k miles.
Fantastic video and truly appreciated! Thanks for the follow-up video as well! Order my TWO cans of the cleaner and filters and looking forward to getting rid of my smell. Thanks!
Thanks for this... from a fellow Raleigh Tesla owner. You made it look super easy. Well done video.
Thank you sir!
Thank you for this! I also get my MY serviced in Raleigh. Didn't want to make the drive from GSO just for this and seems easy enough. Thanks again for posting!
Hi Evan! RUclips recommended your channel today, so I’m watching them in reverse.
Another good tip is to turn your ac off and let the fan run for 5-7 mins to dry the condensation from the coil…if not the moisture from the coil will get that mildew smell the same way clothes get if you forget to get them out of the washer…lol. Great video by the way ..👍🏼
True... but a software update has fixed this awhile back. Sometimes you will hear the fan running on the car from the outside randomly during the day.
@@EMtesla1 Good to hear 👍🏼
Thanks for the video, just followed it step by step. Hope this does the trick!
You’re welcome!
@@EMtesla1 great job, by the way. You make it look easy.
Just did this myself following your excellent instructions. Thanks!
Great to hear!
Thanks man, this was a huge help on my 2021 Model Y! :)
Just did mine, thanks for the great tutorial!!!!!
Did this with a full set of acrylic nails on my 2021 model 3, super easy. Don’t go pay Tesla LOL
Evan, forgot to get back here to thank you for this vid. Except for the Torx 15 (is really 20) was perfect.
Now have my 2nd Model 3 and ready to do it to this one. Guess they improved the location and access to the bolt (thanks Tesla).
Great to hear!
非常好👍自己都可以动手做😄
Do take more care of the wires for the light and speaker. after releasing the cover hold it with one hand and undo the connections with the other hand. Do not set the cover in the footwell like that with wires at strain.
Be careful. Its an expensive car, if you bought a tesla and you are frugal and cheap like me get the plastic interior removal kit. They are like 10 dollars.. you can also set the new filters on top of each other and use them as a prop for the cover, the height is perfect.
Good luck and keep pushing that accelerator
I use it all the time on my Toyota. I put it up the evaporator drain. Smells good. Every change of season. I have to replace my air blend door. It does not shut fully. Interesting didn't know Tesla 3 had these problems.
This was a great video thank u for sharing 👍🏻 my M3 had only three retainer clips and the orange wire on outside of filter box was not present (may be due to AWD variant)
Thank you!!! Just did mine. Last week!
Great Video and very detailed. Thank you so much for building my confidence.
Great video and very useful information!
Charles Jones thank you! I look forward to producing more content.
If you press and hold the fan icon from the main screen, it will shut off the air. Press and hold to turn it back on.
good video, thanks
Thanks for the video. Very helpful ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks for the post. Most helpful and got it done.
Glad it helped
Thanks! Great job
Great video. Thanks. Looks like an easy to do remedy. Filters change easy too 😎
Steven Scholpp thank you!
Great video Evan, Thanks! I'm going to try it this weekend. I would like to know why you need to remove the top panel when all the work is related to the side panel where the filters are located?
Thank you!
Regarding the top panel, if you don't remove it, you will not be able to reach the torx screw to release the cabin air filter panel.
Thank you. Much appreciated.
Your filters are way cleaner than mine thanks for the video
No problem!
What did you do to your filters then? Can we wash or brush them? I need to clean my 3 as well. Thx.
Buy new ones
Agree you need to buy new ones
Thank you guys! Will buy the new ones. In fact, I didn't pay much attention to other cars if they will have such smells as well. Why Tesla has this noticeable smell? My friend's Tesla also has smells. Anyway, I will recommend your video to my friends who need this. Thanks again.
Thanks Evan
Nice video, but I wouldn't have put the dirty filters back in. Would have been a good time to replace the filters.
Yea I did that in my second video on this filter update. Thanks!
thanks for the tutorial!
Don't forget to subscribe, I'll be posting an update on this in the next couple weeks. thank you!
Great vid! Can you comment on how the car's doing since it's been a couple months? Did the smell come back? Do you have to clean it often?
A 60 day follow-up will be posted on my channel within the next two weeks. Thank you!
Great video.
Thank you!
Great first vid!
thanks, it's been a journey haha
Great video, thanks 👍
Thanks!
Took delivery of my M3 4 months ago and the AC started smelling like socks 3 months in! Think I’m just going to pay the $150 for them to do this.. probably the most disappointing aspect of owning the vehicle thus far.
Hey your amazon link to the cleaner is dead, might want to update it. Great video, exactly what I needed to know I can do this easily myself!
I know it’s currently sold out on amazon this may be why
You can contact us to find a distributor near you - 800-333-5823 . Here's our updated video as well - ruclips.net/video/OtIVBc4yv_M/видео.html
Holy crap, that T15 could not be placed in a more inconvenient and inaccessible position if they tried. It took me 20 minutes to get it out, and I couldn't get it all of the way back in. It should have either been at the bottom of the cover, or replaced by a plastic tab.
I would say that whoever designed that ought to be staked out under a Falcon 9, but a bettter (and worse) punishment would be to condemn them to cleaning and replacing filters, using hand tools, from now until the end of time. Or longer.
Thank you!!
When I did this the foam came overflowing out of the filter area, does that mean I didn't get it in the right place?
Thank you ‼️😃
sprinkle some baking soda on the filters too
Thanks for the video. One observation, you didn't need to remove the top cover.. note you put the to cover first after you completed the procedure, therefore no need to remove the top 😁
To remove the filters you have to remove the top panel. If this is what you are referring to?
@@EMtesla1 oh nevermind, I thought you removed the top cover so that you can remove the side panel! In the video you removed the top first and you also put it first so I thought it wasn't necessary. Now I understand that the top cover is important to remove to remove the filter (not side cover). Thanks for the clarification Evan.
Came here for the same clarification. Thanks
I need to do this to my car and I'm only 7000 miles with it. I live in Houston so its humid out here. I was thinking about getting the EV tuning HEPA filters.
I saw these Hepa filters on Abstract Ocean's website, think I might get those.
Evan, can't you also use the drain pipe under car? Basically insert the foam tube through the drain outlet into the evaporator and then push the foam in. I do that on my Prius and it works fine..
You can but first you have to remove the cabin air filters, or the foam will not reach the evaporator coils.
Any update on how it is 2 years later? Did the smell come back at all, or did this completely solve this common issue with Teslas?
Its solves the issue for 1 year. Expect to do this annually.
Evan Michiels hmm, that’s a little frustrating but aight guess it’s better to at least have a solution than no solution at all. From how many times I’ve heard of this problem, I’m surprised Tesla hasn’t spend ample resources into fixing it. Of all the minor problems I heard about Teslas, this is probably one of the most pervasive issues and one that would seem to be fairly simple to fix.
Great video. I'm not very handsy would recommend this method to someone who is not very hands-on?
It’s not too difficult, the hardest part is removing the torx 20 screw
Great vid Evan, I have the same issue with the smell. Since tesla recommends this cleaner I’m guessing it also kills all the bacteria/mold. I was thinking you could have also sprayed that location with Lysol to kill off any remaining bacteria/mold/mildew before putting back the filters? Better location for spraying than using the frunk intake because filters get it first before the evaporators.
Yea, unfortunately I did spray lysol through the frunk with the filters in place and it did not work. I think it would be pretty difficult to spray lysol in there unless you had the fans running and sprayed it in through the intake vent under the passenger side. I will surely follow up with another video to see how well/long this foam cleaner holds up. Thanks for your comment!
Evan Michiels where is the internal intake of the AC? Can you show that in the next vid? Been looking for it but I have not opened the panels. That probably is the best place to spray the Lysol from and let it pass through the entire system without the filters. I may try this and do both the Kool It and Lysol.
@@L3xAce The intake is where the cabin filters are located, so once you take off that cover, remove the filters under the passenger side, and turn the fans on high you will feel the air suck into that slot where you can spray the lysol. I would personally just remove the filters, re-attach the side panel where the filters are and then spray from the intake panel under the frunk hood.
For weekly routine, running plain air (Recirculating OFF and AC OFF) on higher 7-10 setting help prevent/reduce mold/smell?
it could possibly, I have not tried this.
I found it odd that there is only one screw (T15) at the top holding the filter compartment lid in place , the bottom does not snap into anything and can be opened freely by moving the orange wire that is mounted on it. Can anyone confirm?
Also, you don't really need to disconnect the two wires (audio and light I think), as long as you're careful to move it out of the way.
Great video!
Yeah, the Lubegard stuff is a ripoff. They underfill the can. Probably 2-3 oz instead of 6oz. Get Klima-Cleaner instead, way more spray for only few bucks more. Might have to snip the spray nozzle if you don't like their tri-spray pattern. Those filters are alot closer to the evaporator than on an ICE car, though. I dont know if that is optimal.
Mine still smells after doing this, so I need to redo and respray?
use two cans
When you say run the "fan", you are referring to NO A/C on correct? notice that you had A/C running at the beginning of video? PS. How are owners NOT upset that this is acceptable? I just paid $152 from Tesla to fix this smell due to their POOR design???
It is unfortunate that Tesla will not pay for this fix. Especially for owning the car for only 4 months. To answer your question, I ran the fan with the AC on, I don’t think it matters as long as you have air running through the coils.
Should this additional unexpected expense be factored into the Model 3's annual operating costs? Periodic 4-month cleaning exercise or $152 x 3 times a year expense = $456/Annually? Let us know how long the Koolit solution lasts before you need to clean again, if you could...great Video!
I just posted a update on this a couple days ago, check out that video on my channel. Also Tesla sent out a software update to run the fans longer after you exit the car so the coils dry out, I believe that was 2019.12.x.
You made a great point Chris Nguyen. I think you need to run the air without AC so it doesn’t have the coils freezing and capturing the solution instead than drying with air blowing.
All cars can suffer from this issue, especially in warm humid climates, not unique to Tesla!
What IS unique though is that Tesla have proactively changed software to run the fan a while when you park to dry the coils out.
You made this look too easy! I just did it and I struggled! The wire to the speaker broke off and now I can not get it reattached. Great video however! Recommend for very young and nimble people!
Thank you!
I am in your area! Goldsboro! Hope to see you at some of the Tesla events! My wife and I did the Parkway event this year and had a great time!
I was there too, cya on the next Tesla meetup!
You put the top panel back before replacing the side panel. It doesn't seem like the top panel needs removing at all if the side panel can go in while the top panel is installed. Did I miss something?
The filters need to slide out; there for hitting the top panel. Unfortunately you have to remove it.
@@EMtesla1 aaaah, gotcha. Thanks!
This video says its 3 years old as of summer 2023... since you originally posted... Has it ever returned???
You will need to do this yearly... yes
@@EMtesla1 I’ve experienced in the past sooner than a year😢
@@kupua yea, depends where you live. The Deep South and the humidity may cause more frequent filter changes.
@@EMtesla1 I’m in LA and it’s dry but wish they would come up with a real fix. I’m thinking of trying to back set the first filter
Yes sir did your smell come back
Posting an update video on this next Friday
Do you think i can use this on my jeep because i have the exact problem??
Yea I don’t see why not
When putting everything back, shouldn't you put the side panel on first before the bottom panel? Or else why even remove the bottom panel when you can just remove the side panel to access the filters?
Because with the top panel still on, the filters will not be able to come out or be inserted. Thank you
@@EMtesla1 thanks Evan. But what I don't understand is when you removed the panels, you started with the bottom panel underneath the glove compartment first, then the side panel. However, when you placed the panels back, you placed the bottom panel on first again, then the side panel. Shouldn't the order be reversed?
Honestly it does not matter the order. Preferably take off the top panel first and then the side panel. Reverse it when reinstalling them. Cheers man
@@EMtesla1 OK. Good to know. I thought the bottom panel interfered with the side panel not realizing it only interferes with removing and installing the air filters. Thanks.
Is this still a thing I should be looking out for in the 2021 model? I haven’t noticed any smells as of yet.
I got a model 3 in September of 2020, and recently got a brief smell when starting the AC. So about 8 months in. Hopefully you don't experience it with the newer model 3 revision.
I gave this a try and did one step further and cleaned it twice, once through the evaporator side as shown in this video and the drain side under the frunk. Unfortunately the smell came back. There seems to be some issue where my model 3 no longer drips water, but I'm not sure why. The cleaner drips through, but i never see water dripping anymore.
Mine still seems to be draining water just fine, what part of the country do you reside? I know very humid climates have suffered the most with the smell in their AC.
After doing this, I hear a little like light vibrating sound when the AC is circulating in the cabin on high. Do you hear that too? Is that normal?
Sorry I don’t hear anything on mine.
@@EMtesla1 interesting. I'll pull it apart again and take another look. Thanks.
2:42 There's a speaker there? What's it for?
its part of the many speakers tesla has, its why it has an amazing sounds system.
Is the foam scented? And does it leave a fragrance smell in the car?
It’s a clean, fresh scent.
Did anyone have trouble with unhooking the speaker cable and the other cable? Is there a tab to push in to disconnect? I’m afraid to use force
Yes, push on the tab while pulling out the cord.
@@EMtesla1 I can't find the tab :/, I think I might've broke the plastic piece too, I have no idea how to disconnect this cable. The light one has a clear tab but the speaker seems like just stuck in. Model 3 2021
First, I gotta say, you were great in Iron Man.
What you are smelling in Elon "musk"!
Have you used anything to clean the intake area?
I would take a shop vac hose to get large debris out of there. But I haven’t had any reason to clean the intake yet.
Is it a Torx 15 or 20? Other videos say it's a 20.
Torx 20
I can't find this product
Please have a look at the link in the description I have another product in there
How often do you do this?
Ever since the software update last year... I haven’t done it since
So, you undid the glovebox area, then you pulled off the side. But when you reassembled it, you reattached the glovebox area, then did the side. Shouldn’t the reassembly have been to do the side, THEN the glovebox? What’s even the point of taking off the glovebox?
I really don’t think it matters on the way you re-attach the glove box and side panel for the end part. Whatever works best for you.
I found it easier to reinstall the side panel first, and then the panel under the glove box. I used the same cleaner and new filter, and smell came back in a week. Running another can of Kool It again. it's been exactly two years, and my 2020 model 3 was brand new. This is Arizona btw
update?
I will be posting an update on this in the next couple weeks.
Update Posted!
I find it a little phucked that with all the cars I’ve ever bought, all I’ve ever had to do was change the cabin filter and now we have to clean the coil or pay the dealer to do it? Phuuuuuuuuuck that. Thanks to COVID, I haven’t had my sense of smell since last November so I suppose IF there’s a smell, I won’t notice it.
Hey v
You think it humid in North Carolina try living in Florida LOL
Yea, I’ve been there in the summer unfortunately. I’ll pass... lol!