Is there a ventilation filter in the 850 that I'm missing? There's kind of a musty smell when the heater/defroster is turned on. Could it be mold in the ventilation ducts?

TIA
Boz

Be sure to check the little drains (that are not far from the pollen filter)just below the windshield wipers -- if these become clogged (with leaves, etc) water can back up & go into the fresh air intakes and collect in the fan housing which could start mold growth

Trent
'96 855 GLT
'84 245T
'86 745T (organ donor)
'65 Triumph Spitfire MKII
'73 VW Super Beetle

n/t

Unfortunately the pollen filter (or hepa filter) on the 850 was an aftermarket improvement and was not fitted as standard by the factory. I can imagine all these 850 owners looking under the passenger side scuttle for a filter and thinking someone has removed it!!!. It really is a great improvement for just a few bucks and could prolong the life of the evaporator, I think that everyone should fit one.
John Scales (1996 850R)

Who makes the aftermarket filter? Probably won't help w/ mold. Might have to break down for the Wurth disinfectant.

Thanks...

Make sure you replace the air filter located under the cowling... lift the hood and look to the firewall on the passenger side.. you'll notice a black "plastic" cover that stretches across the entire span of area immediately in front of the windshield. I believe it is held in place with torx screws... remove them and the cowling lifts to reveal a filter... it's important to keep it clean and or replace it... about 25 bucks at the dealer, mine had the same problem... replaced the filter and voila!

Good luck

Shawn

The dealer has a spray that they use. It kills the molds that form in the ducts. They usually don't charge for this.

I also get that when I first turn on my system. I believe it is simply a result in accumulation of water at the bottom of SOMETHING in the ventilation system. I really wouldn't know how to get rid of the smell short of replacing whatever it is that the water is collecting in.

kevin

On Car Talk they suggested spraying Lysol of your fragrance choice ("Swedish Meatball" anyone or I guess "Autumn Rhapsody" might be better) in the underhood air intakes - right in front of the windshield - while the system is running. No details offered on how much to spray. I believe mold grows if too much time is spent with the a/c select on "off".
Don
T-5R
V70

go this route but man does it stink in there after!