Is that new-car smell toxic?

One of the most enticing aspects of buying a new car is the new-car smell that comes with it. But many consumers wonder if that smell is toxic for their health. The quick answer is that there haven’t been any definitive studies proving a real danger inherent in the smell of your new car, but that doesn’t mean it cannot create some discomfort.

The new-car smell comes from the combination of various adhesives, rubbers, glues, fabrics and solvents used inside a car’s interior. Some of these products contain VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, which can cause nausea and dizziness in certain people. These VOCs are usually present in sufficient quantities to lead to some discomfort for six months but to limit the time they spend inside your new vehicle, there are a few precautions you can take.

Firstly, open your windows as much as possible to ventilate the cabin. Also, avoid spending too much time inside the vehicle when it is parked, and avoid leaving the car out in the sun for extended periods of time if you can. VOCs are more present when the interior is very hot.

Also, you want to clean your interior as much as possible using a microfiber brush and non-toxic cleaner.

Thank you to Volvo of Oakville for their help with this article.