PEE-EW Every Vehicle but Kia and Nissan Models Literally Stink
Nothing ruins a good time like a bad smell, especially during car trips where you’re trapped with whatever stinks. But something unpleasant smelling is happening in the automotive industry. Every automaker but Kia and Nissan has increasing reports of bad smells.
Every car but Kia and Nissan models stink
Kia and Nissan models just gained an edge over the competition due to smelling better. According to the J.D.Power Initial Quality Study, every automaker but Kia and Nissan has increasing reports of foul odors.
This problem has grown since 2023 and interiors are smellier than ever. The unpleasant odors reportedly stem from the vehicle’s heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems.
While I drive a lot of vehicles all year, I crank the heat, the air conditioning, and ventilated seats as often as possible. I haven’t run into any stinky issues yet, but the Genesis GV80 has curated scents available.
The strong smell of leather and freshly vacuumed carpet are the two things that I notice most. Some leathers and other interior materials smell better than others. Also, hotter days make a difference.
This problem seems subjective, but it’s a serious issue. J.D.Power provides a quality rating based on customer feedback. Each score is calculated based on the most problems reported per 100 vehicles.
The increasing odor issue is listed in the top four most popular causes of frustration. Stinking interiors are up there with sensitive or false vehicle alerts, problems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and confusing touchscreen menus.
It’s pretty wild that these top problems are more prevalent and frustrating than recalls and repairs. But they do seem to be more related to everyday driving.
Typically interior plastics, brake pad compounds, and important fluids such as coolant receive the most complaints.
Also, Audi has an entire nose team dedicated to detecting bad smells. Apparently, the team needs an overhaul because only Kia and Nissan models made it to 2024 without increasing complaints.
In recent history, the Hyundai Palisade had a recall due to unpleasant-smelling leather upholstery and the Jeep plant in Michigan had to investigate a foul odor. But these issues have been addressed!
