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Stale Smell from AC in 2021 Kona - Cabin Filter DIY?

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Ashley M. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:02 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2021 Hyundai Kona Ultimate

Hi everyone,

I've got a 2021 Hyundai Kona Ultimate, and lately, when I turn on the AC or even just the fan, there's a really stale, almost musty smell coming through the vents. It's not super strong, but it's definitely noticeable and unpleasant.

I'm thinking it might be the cabin air filter. My car has about 35,000 miles on it, and I don't think it's ever been changed. Is this a common symptom of a dirty cabin filter? Can I easily change it myself, and where is it located on the 2021 Kona? Any recommendations for a good replacement filter?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:02 AM

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Hello Jessica L.,

A musty or stale smell from your AC vents is a very common indicator of a dirty or moldy cabin air filter, especially at 35,000 miles. This filter traps dust, pollen, and other airborne particles, and over time, moisture can accumulate, leading to mold and mildew growth.

DIY Cabin Air Filter Replacement on a 2021 Hyundai Kona:

Good news! Changing the cabin air filter on most Hyundai models, including your Kona, is a straightforward DIY task. It's typically located behind the glove box.

Steps:

  1. Empty Glove Box: Remove all contents from your glove box.
  2. Release Glove Box: Open the glove box. On the right side, you'll usually find a small string or damper arm that needs to be detached. On both sides of the glove box, there are often stoppers or clips that you'll need to twist or push in to allow the glove box to swing down further.
  3. Locate Filter Housing: Once the glove box is fully lowered, you'll see a rectangular plastic housing, usually with two clips on either side. This is the cabin air filter housing.
  4. Remove Old Filter: Unclip the housing cover and pull out the old filter. Note the direction of the airflow arrow on the old filter (usually pointing down).
  5. Install New Filter: Insert the new filter, ensuring the airflow arrow points in the correct direction (typically down, but always double-check the old filter or your owner's manual).
  6. Reassemble: Snap the housing cover back into place, reattach the glove box stoppers/clips, and reconnect the damper arm.

Filter Recommendations:

  • Standard Filter: A good quality pleated paper filter will do the job for basic filtration.
  • Activated Charcoal Filter: For combating odors, an activated charcoal (carbon) cabin air filter is highly recommended. These filters are designed to absorb odors more effectively than standard filters and can significantly reduce that musty smell.

When to See a Shop:

  • If the smell persists even after replacing the cabin air filter with an activated charcoal type, it might indicate mold growth on the evaporator core. This requires a more involved cleaning process, often using specialized evaporator foam cleaners, which might be best handled by a professional shop.
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