What is That “New Car Smell”?

Most people think the pollution caused by their vehicles come from the exhaust pipe, not the steering wheel. Well, it turns out that the new car smell some seek when buying a vehicle is actually the result of the synthetic materials that make up the car’s interior outgasing.

What Are We Breathing?

It should be known that car manufacturers do not list all of the compounds used in making their products (due to the competitive nature of the industry). However, it has been found – through independent tests – that elements that are known to be hazardous to human health are being used in these synthetic materials. Fabrics are treated with arsenic (really!? A poison?), leather is tanned with chromium (a carcinogen), chlorine and lead are used to make PVC plastic (we should know better!), and mercury is used in polymers (….com’on!!!).

The average new car contains 250 pounds of plastic, the largest portion used for interior seat cushions, arm rests, door panels, steering wheels, dashboards, and insulation. This also includes all of the gadgets and gizmo’s found in the modern vehicle. This is of particular concern because of the constant physical contact a driver has with these surfaces. Drivers and passengers are not only breathing in these chemicals but are absorbing it through their skin.

Even more alarming is the fact that these chemicals are used in making car seats for infants!! It is highly recommend that you never buy a used car seat because you don’t know if it’s been in an accident. However, below is a list of car seats that should be avoided at all costs!

Improvements?

Although the automotive industry took notice of the report, there was no instant reaction to change the status quo. Changes brought by the report were slow-going, but due to the ‘Green’ movement, just about every vehicle manufacturer has initiated research and development to reduce or eliminate built-in passenger compartment pollution.

In 2008, the Ecology Center said that Ford and Honda had made the most significant improvements since the original findings and had joined Toyota as the three leaders in using “safe” plastics for indoor auto parts. The three leaders are doing this by using bio-based materials, improving air circulation/quality and reducing the use of PVC.

Scientific authorities recommend that you drive with the windows open for the first several weeks of owning your new car, especially in hot weather when the phenomenon is exacerbated. It is also recommended that you use solar reflectors and park in shaded areas whenever possible. Leaving the windows cracked when parked will also help alleviate the toxic build-up. Even with these practices it should be noted that the outgasing of these new materials will continue for years.

The once desirable new car smell has now become controversial, but now that you know the facts you can breathe a little easier. Well, maybe not.

Sources Cited:

“New Car Smell” is actually Toxic.

Don’t inhale that new car smell

Is That ‘New Car Smell’ Harming You?