Buzz
For most, the scent of a new car is unexpectedly alluring. While it’s tricky to define the exact essence, numerous air fresheners and sprays have tried to capture it. But what exactly makes that smell so distinct?
Though its crispness suggests freshness, the scent of a newly manufactured car is far from purely natural. It’s actually the result of the ‘off-gassing’ of various chemical substances from the plastics, paint, sealants, lubricants, plasticizers, and other materials that make up a vehicle’s interior and exterior.
Cars are designed to endure, withstanding bumps and scratches while maintaining their sleek look. To achieve this durability, they’re built with materials that resist corrosion—usually a mix of advanced vinyls and plastics. These substances are particularly good at protecting the car’s interior. For instance, polyurethane is a tough, flexible material that resists heat, wear from weather, radiation, and chemicals, while polyethylene terephthalate (more commonly known as polyester) is used in parts like wiper arms, engine covers, and connector housings. These materials, along with others, contribute to that signature new car smell.
While the scent may be a delight to many, it can be just as toxic as it is captivating. The volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by these materials have high vapor pressures and low boiling points, causing a large number of molecules to vaporize into the air. In fact, scientific studies have explored whether these smells are concentrated enough to pose any health risks—both in the short and long term. Some of these volatile chemicals, often found in paints and adhesives, may lead to dizziness, allergic reactions, or headaches if exposed to high levels over extended periods.
Luckily, most of the VOCs inside a car gradually fade away and can be vented out by simply opening a window and allowing fresh air to flow through.
This article was first published in 2016 and has been updated for 2024.
