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Musty smell from AC in 2017 Dodge Journey - Cabin Air Filter?

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:18 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Dodge Journey Crossroad

My 2017 Dodge Journey Crossroad, which has about 55,000 miles on it, has developed a really unpleasant, musty, almost mildew-like smell coming from the AC vents. It's especially bad when I first turn on the air conditioning, and it's making rides pretty uncomfortable.

I've heard that a dirty cabin air filter can cause this kind of smell. Is that likely the culprit for my Journey? Where exactly is the cabin air filter located on the 2017 Journey, and how difficult is it to change out myself? Are there any other things I should be checking if changing the filter doesn't fix the problem?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 4:18 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A musty, mildew-like smell from your 2017 Dodge Journey Crossroad's AC vents is a very common complaint, and you're spot on – a dirty cabin air filter is often the primary culprit. Here's a breakdown of what's likely happening and how to fix it:

  1. Cabin Air Filter as the Culprit:

    • Function: The cabin air filter is designed to filter out dust, pollen, leaves, and other airborne particles before they enter your vehicle's cabin through the HVAC system.
    • Smell Cause: Over time, these filters collect moisture, dirt, and organic matter, creating a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and bacteria. When the AC or fan runs, it blows air through this contaminated filter, carrying the unpleasant odors into the cabin.

  2. Cabin Air Filter Location (2017 Dodge Journey):

    • The cabin air filter in your 2017 Dodge Journey is typically located behind the glove compartment on the passenger side of the vehicle.

  3. DIY Replacement Steps:

    • Empty Glove Compartment: Remove all items from your glove compartment.
    • Release Stops: Open the glove compartment door. On the sides, you'll see small tabs or 'stops' that prevent it from opening too far. Gently push these inward or upward to release the glove compartment and allow it to swing down further.
    • Access Filter Housing: Once the glove compartment is fully lowered or removed, you should see a rectangular plastic housing (often with clips or a latch) that contains the cabin air filter. This is usually located behind the dashboard on the passenger side.
    • Remove Old Filter: Unclip or unlatch the housing cover and carefully pull out the old filter. Note its orientation (usually an airflow arrow).
    • Install New Filter: Insert the new cabin air filter, ensuring it's oriented correctly according to the airflow arrow (typically pointing towards the rear of the vehicle). Close the housing cover and re-secure the glove compartment.

  4. Other Potential Causes & Solutions:

    • Evaporator Coil Mold: If changing the filter doesn't completely eliminate the smell, mold and bacteria might have grown directly on the AC evaporator coil, which is deep within the dashboard. This happens when moisture condenses on the coil and doesn't dry out properly.
    • AC System Cleaner: You can purchase specialized AC system cleaning sprays (often called 'foggers' or 'odor eliminators') that are designed to kill mold and bacteria on the evaporator coil. These are typically applied by running the AC on recirculate with the product inside the cabin or by spraying directly into the fresh air intake.
    • Drain Clog: Ensure the AC condensate drain (a small tube usually under the vehicle) isn't clogged, allowing water to pool inside the HVAC system.

When to See a Shop: If replacing the cabin air filter and using an AC system cleaner doesn't resolve the smell, or if you suspect a more complex issue like a clogged drain or a deeper evaporator coil problem, it's best to have a professional HVAC technician inspect your Journey. They can perform a more thorough cleaning or diagnose any mechanical issues.

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