New cars have a distinct smell that some people like, mainly because it confirms that they are indeed driving their own brand new car. However, that new car smell is caused by something: leftover chemicals used in making the car. These chemicals are unhealthy for us to breathe and even unhealthy for us to get on our skin. They include: PBDEs, decanol, formaldehyde, naphthalene, acettonitrile and others. Some of these chemicals are linked to serious health problems.
What can you do about it? There are several things you can do to get rid of the chemical residue. Give the inside of your new car a detailed washing before you start using it. Ventilate, leave all of the windows open as much as possible to air it out. When you use the air conditioning, use non-recirculating air. When possible, park in the shade, heat from the sun can cause the chemicals to become even more toxic. When you no longer smell that new car smell, you'll know that the car is safer for you and your family to use.
Some manufacturers have starting phasing in some safer materials, such as eco-plastic, soy-based foam and bio-fabric, but there is still a long way to go. Another option is to buy a used car that has already lost that odor.
Any experience with a new car (2007 Toyo hybrid) still having extremely high levels of acetonitrile compound 2 years after delivery? We have left the car at the dealers.
Posted by: Steve | November 30, 2008 at 07:03 PM