A new car smell isn't just annoying; it can also be a danger to your health. The smell comes from a cocktail of hundreds of chemicals from different parts of the car's interior such as dashboard, seats and steering wheel covers. According to Ecology Center, chemicals of particular concern include bromine from flame retardants, lead, and chlorine from the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) parts.
These chemicals have been linked to a variety of health concerns, such as cancer, allergies, and even birth defects. Some of these chemicals are not regulated so it is difficult to tell how much they are used in new cars. The good news is that many car manufacturers have taken notice of the danger and are working towards using safer compounds.
Before the day comes when all these chemicals are eliminated, you can play your part in reducing the new car smell (and hence the danger of the chemicals) by:
Use Absorbent Chemicals
Use absorbent chemicals to absorb the smell. Place the chemicals in open containers and leave them in different places in your car. Make sure you use non-toxic absorbents, such as zeolite and baking powder. Replace the chemicals regularly so that they can continue absorbing the smell efficiently.
Take Care of Your Air Filters
Your car's air filter has integrated HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Arrestors) filters, as well as activated charcoal. The combination works to absorb some of the chemicals released by the car. Of course, how much of these chemicals your filters absorb depend on how well you maintain them. Clean and change the filters regularly; a changing interval of 15,000 miles is advisable.
Open the Windows While Driving
Even the simple act of opening your windows while driving may help to deal with the chemicals released in your car. It will not reduce the amount of chemicals released, but it will help to channel them outside, so that you don't breathe them in too much.
Insist On Safe Products During Service
Whenever there is work or auto repair done on your car that involves the use of new materials, you should insist on materials that do not release dangerous levels of these chemicals. This should be the case, for example, when changing the car seats' upholstery or dashboard. This is especially necessary for old cars because newer products tend to be safer than older ones. Time is also an important factor in getting rid of these fumes; the more you use your car, the safer it becomes.
Share17 February 2015
When you take your car in to a mechanic for repairs, do you have any idea what the repair you need should cost you? Do you know if the parts being used are OEM parts or aftermarket? Learning these things can help you negotiate a fair price for repairs. On my site, you will also find a few suggestions to help you save money on the parts needed to make the repairs. Sometimes, you can save money on buying salvage parts, but other times, salvage parts could end up costing you more in the long run. Learn more about saving money on auto repairs by visiting my site.