Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

A/C Odor Treatment Procedure

Odors may be emitted from the air conditioning system primarily at startup in hot, humid climates. This odor may be the result of debris in the heater/evaporator case or growth of mold on the evaporator core. To address this condition, a service kit is available through GMSPO.

A single application of this deodorizer GM P/N 12370470 will remove odor from the air conditioning system. However, installation of a delayed blower control module is recommended to prevent the odor from returning, refer to the installation instructions that come with the part.

1. Make sure that the plenum that draws air from the outside is clear of all debris.
2. Disable the A/C compressor clutch operation by disconnecting the clutch coil.
3. Dry the evaporator core by turning the engine on, and running the blower motor on high and on a recirculating mode, with the temperature control on maximum heat for 10 minutes.
4. Locate an area in the air conditioning duct between the blower motor and the evaporator core, downstream of the blower motor fan.
5. Drill a 1/8 inch hole where it will not interfere with the blower motor, evaporator or any operating part of the system.
6. Using safety goggles and latex gloves, keep the blower motor on high and insert the extension tube of the deodorizer GM P/N 12370470 into the hole past the mark on the tube. Spray the area with short bursts, dispensing the contents of the can over a 2-3 minute period varying the direction of the spray into the duct.
7. Turn the engine off and let sit for 3-5 minutes.
8. Seal the 1/8 inch hole with body sealer or RTV gasket compound.
9. Start the engine and run the fan on high for 15-20 minutes to dry.
10. Reconnect the air conditioning compressor clutch coil and verify operation.