I have a 2010 X sedan and for some reason when I do a cold start, I have been noticing an exhaust smell coming from the air vents. Its been happening more lately due to the colder temps since I have the heat on the lowest level when I start the car. This only happens for about 30 seconds to a minute and then it goes away. Its def an exhaust smell and not a burning oil smell. The heat does work normally as it gets real hot when the car warms up but I was just wondering if anyone else experienced this...

 

If it smells like old socks then its mildew build up from the A/C you can temporarily fix it by changing the in cabin filter or letting it vent out.

If it smells like exhaust and you are warming up the car it is the exhaust fumes drawing in from outside. If I am behind a diesel truck in traffic I get the same effect.

 

It doesnt smell like socks and I def changed the cabin filter a year ago. Maybe I have exhaust leak somewhere.

 

Or maybe the cabin filter needs to be changed again.

Very easy DIY, takes 10 minutes with a long phillips screwdriver

Telcoman