So about 2 weeks ago my wife took the car in to the dealership to have oil changed and the car inspected. Last night she tells me that ever since then when she uses the AC it smells funny. I dont know why she didnt tell me sooner but sure enough the AC smells bad. At first i thought it smelled like a cherry air freshner then later like dirty socks. I dont know what it is. Is there any chance they could have put some sort of air freshner in the vents or something? I cant figure it out.

 

i doubt it, what you most likely have is a plugged evaporator drain. this will cause the condensation to remain in the hvac assembly, and will cause a musty smell. get under the car, locate the drain and make sure that it is free of debris. also check your cabin air filter if dirty this could cause a smell as well.

 

where is exactly is the drain? Thanks

 

it could also be teh cabin filter is dirty and needs to be replaced

 

how much are they and where is it? thanks

 

there a pic somewere its under the cowl on the pass side and i dont know how much shouldnt be must tho

 

is that a warranty item?

 

THE SMELL
The AC condensate drains are inside the sheetmetal in the
transmission hump area.
Impossable to find them from under the vehicle.
Believe you me, I have spent many an hour trying.
As for the Cabin Air Filter location.....
Cabin Air Filter
FORD WORKSHOP MANUAL
STICKY

 

thanks brother, this is turning in to a nuissance. should be covered under warranty, right?

 

It is caused by mildew. It happens to most cars. There was a TSB for in in my Jeep, but haven't seen one for the s197. Basically, it will go away over time during the winter. Try some liquid spray air freshener in the vents to camo it.