How to Remove Oil Smell from Car

Noticing a lingering oil smell in your car can be both unpleasant and concerning. Whether it’s from a recent spill, a leak, or engine fumes seeping into the cabin, that strong odor can make driving uncomfortable and may even signal a deeper issue. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to remove oil smell from car, covering both quick fixes and long-term solutions to keep your ride fresh and worry-free.

Key Takeaways

• Inspect for oil leaks, spills, or residue on engine components.

• Use degreasers for the engine bay and clean the interior with vacuums and safe cleaners.

• A fresh filter prevents oil fumes from circulating inside the cabin.

• Let fresh air in and use odor neutralizers or ozone treatments.

• Routine checks and cleanups can stop the smell from coming back.

Understanding the Cause of Oil Smell in Your Car

If your car smells like oil, it is important to identify the source and address it promptly. An oil smell can be a sign of a mechanical issue, a safety concern, or a simple maintenance oversight. This section explains the most common causes and the potential risks involved.

1. Identify Potential Sources of the Oil Smell

Several mechanical issues or maintenance errors can lead to an oil smell in your vehicle:

• Leaking valve cover gasket This gasket seals the top of the engine and prevents oil from leaking. When it fails, oil can seep out and cause a noticeable smell.

• Spilled oil during an oil change If oil is spilled and not properly cleaned, it can create a strong smell once the engine heats up.

• Oil contacting hot engine parts Oil that drips onto the exhaust manifold, engine block, or other heated areas may burn and release a sharp odor.

• Loose or faulty oil filter or drain plug These can cause slow leaks that allow oil to collect under the engine or drip onto warm surfaces.

• Clogged or dirty cabin air filter If this filter is dirty, it can pull oil fumes from the engine bay into the cabin, making the smell more noticeable.

2. Impact of Persistent Oil Odor on Your Car and Health

A strong or ongoing oil smell should not be ignored. It can lead to several negative outcomes:

• Health concerns Prolonged exposure to oil fumes in a closed vehicle can cause headaches, nausea, and irritation of the eyes or respiratory system.

• Engine damage Leaking oil reduces lubrication, which increases friction and wear on engine components.

• Fire risk If oil collects on or near hot parts of the engine, there is a risk of ignition.

• Higher repair costs Small leaks can become larger problems over time, requiring more extensive and costly repairs.

3. Differentiating Between Types of Oil Smells

Understanding the specific type of oil smell can help you identify the problem more accurately:

• Burnt oil smell Usually indicates that oil is leaking onto a hot engine component and burning off.

• Fresh oil smell Often caused by a recent spill or a slow surface-level leak.

• Chemical or exhaust-like oil smell May signal a problem with the PCV system or internal engine components.

• Oil mixed with fuel smell It can indicate more serious engine issues, such as a failing gasket or fuel contamination.

Next, we’ll cover how to assess the situation and take necessary safety precautions before cleaning.

Safety Checks and Inspections Before Removing Oil Smell

Before attempting to remove the oil smell from your car, it's important to perform a basic inspection and take safety precautions. This ensures that you address the root cause of the smell and handle all tasks safely and effectively.

1. Inspecting for Visible Oil Leaks

• Check under the car Park on a clean, flat surface and look for oil spots or puddles beneath the engine area. This can help you identify the location of a leak.

• Look near the oil drain plug and filterUse a flashlight to check for oil dripping from the drain plug, oil filter, or oil pan.

• Inspect the engine areaOpen the hood and check around the valve cover gasket, timing cover, and other engine components for visible signs of oil leakage.

  
  

2. Checking Under the Hood for Oil Residue

• Look for burned or caked oil Oil that has burned onto engine parts may leave behind a dark, sticky residue. This is often found on or near the exhaust manifold.

• Smell near the engine If the smell is stronger with the hood open and the engine warm, that may indicate oil is burning off somewhere in the engine bay.

• Check for recent spills After an oil change, oil may spill around the fill cap or dipstick. Ensure both are sealed tightly and wipe away any excess oil.

  
  

3. Safety Measures Before Beginning Odor Removal

• Turn off the engine and let it cool Never clean a hot engine. Wait at least 30–45 minutes after shutting off the car to allow it to cool.

• Wear gloves and eye protection Degreasers and cleaners can be harsh on skin and eyes. Use protective gear during cleanup.

• Disconnect the battery if cleaning near electrical parts For safety, disconnect the negative terminal to avoid electrical shorts while cleaning the engine bay.

• Work in a well-ventilated area Always perform odor removal or cleaning tasks outdoors or in a space with good airflow to prevent inhaling fumes.

  
  

Now, here’s how to remove the oil smell from your car effectively.

How to Remove Oil Smell from Your Car

Once you’ve identified the cause of the oil smell, the next step is to remove it from your vehicle. Whether it came from a spill, a leak, or burnt residue, here’s how to clean it up and eliminate the odor effectively.

1. Fix the Source of the Smell

• Repair any leaks If the smell is caused by a leaking valve cover gasket, oil filter, or drain plug, have those parts repaired or replaced.

• Clean up any spills Wipe up any visible oil with automotive degreaser and shop towels. Focus on areas near the engine, oil cap, and surrounding components.

• Check the cabin air filter If the smell is inside the car, remove and inspect the cabin air filter. Replace it if it is dirty or contaminated with oil vapors.

  
  

2. Clean the Engine Bay

• Allow the engine to cool

  Always wait until the engine is cool before cleaning to avoid injury.

• Use an engine-safe degreaser

  Spray a degreaser on affected areas of the engine bay, especially where oil residue is present.

• Scrub and rinse carefully

  Use a soft brush to loosen the grime, then rinse with low-pressure water to avoid damaging electrical parts. Avoid over-saturating the engine.

  
  

3. Clean the Interior (if the smell has spread inside)

• Vacuum and wipe surfaces

  Oil vapors can settle into fabric and surfaces. Vacuum seats and carpets, then wipe down hard surfaces with an interior-safe cleaner.

• Use an odor eliminator

  Spray an odor neutralizer or use an ozone generator to remove lingering smells from the cabin.

• Replace floor mats or liners if contaminated

  If oil was spilled inside the car, deep clean the affected mats or liners.

  
  

4. Ventilate the Vehicle

• Let fresh air in

  After cleaning, leave windows or doors open in a safe location to allow airflow.

• Run the fan with fresh air mode on

  This helps push any remaining fumes out of the HVAC system.

Also Read: Car Leather Cleaning Made Easy: A Step-by-Step Guide

To continue, we’ll explore some advanced cleaning methods for tougher odors.

Advanced Cleaning Techniques

If basic cleaning methods don’t eliminate the oil smell, it may be time to try more advanced solutions. These techniques are especially useful when the odor has seeped deep into interior materials or continues after addressing the source.

1. Using Commercial Odor Eliminators

• Choose a product designed for automotive use Look for enzymatic or chemical odor neutralizers that are safe for car interiors. Products like Meguiar’s Whole Car Air Refresher or Ozium can help.

• Target high-absorption surfaces Spray seats, carpet, and headliners where odors may have been absorbed. Always test on a small area first.

• Use odor bombs or foggers if needed These devices circulate a neutralizing mist throughout the cabin. Ensure that you follow the product instructions carefully and ventilate the car afterward.

  
  

2. Steam Cleaning Car Interiors

• Deep-clean fabric and upholstery A steam cleaner can penetrate deep into seats, carpets, and floor mats to lift out oil particles and embedded odors.

• Sanitize and deodorize at the same time Steam not only cleans but also kills bacteria that may be holding onto the smell.

• Avoid over-wetting surfaces Use controlled steam application to prevent mold or water damage, especially in confined areas.

If you want professional steam cleaning for your car’s interior to remove stubborn oil smells, our team at ScrubUp offers the best steam cleaning service. We use advanced equipment and techniques to refresh your car’s cabin safely and effectively. Book a session with us today and breathe fresh again!

3. Employing Professional Detailing Services

• Book an interior detail service Professional detailers use specialized tools and products that can remove persistent odors more effectively than DIY methods.

• Request ozone or vapor treatment Some detailers offer ozone generators or vapor steam machines that neutralize odors at a molecular level.

• Consider engine bay cleaning If oil residue in the engine compartment is contributing to the smell, ask for a safe, professional engine cleaning as part of the service.

Also Read: Car Interior Cleaning: A Complete Guide for 2025

Following that, we’ll discuss how to prevent oil smells from returning in the future.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Oil Smells

Preventing oil smells from returning is easier and less costly than dealing with them after they appear. Regular maintenance and small habits can keep your car smelling fresh and running smoothly.

1. Regular Car Maintenance Tips

• Check oil levels and quality frequently: Regularly inspect your oil levels and condition to catch leaks or degradation early.

• Schedule routine inspections: Have a trusted mechanic examine your engine and seals during oil changes or scheduled service visits.

• Clean engine bay periodically: Keeping the engine bay clean reduces the buildup of oil residue that can cause smells.

  
  

2. Ensuring Tight Seals and Proper Oil Changes

• Use quality gaskets and seals: Always replace worn or damaged gaskets promptly to prevent leaks.

• Avoid overfilling oil: Overfilled oil can cause pressure that leads to leaks and odors.

• Be careful during oil changes: Use proper techniques to avoid spills, and clean up any drips immediately.

  
  

3. Using Cabin Air Filters to Reduce Odors

• Replace cabin air filters regularly: A clean filter blocks oil fumes and other pollutants from entering the cabin.

• Choose filters with odor-absorbing features: Some filters come with activated carbon to help neutralize smells before they reach passengers.

• Keep the ventilation system clean: Periodically clean the air vents and ducts to prevent odor buildup.

Following these steps can help you avoid the unpleasant oil smells and keep your car’s interior fresh and comfortable for every drive.

Conclusion

An oil smell in your car may signal leaks or other issues that require prompt attention. By identifying the source, thoroughly cleaning, and maintaining regularly, you can protect your vehicle and enjoy a fresher, more comfortable ride.

If you’re looking for expert help to eliminate stubborn oil odors, we at ScrubUp are here for you. Using advanced steam cleaning technology, we remove deep-seated smells and refresh your car’s interior to make it feel like new again.

Let us help you get rid of that oil smell. Book your appointment with us via WhatsApp or book through our easy-to-use mobile app (available on both the Play Store and App Store).

Next Explore: Top 10 Car Care Mistakes to Avoid

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the common causes of oil smell in my vehicle? Common causes include oil leaks, spills during oil changes, oil burning on hot engine parts, and a dirty cabin air filter. Knowing these helps you understand how to remove oil smell from car effectively.

2. How to remove oil smell from car quickly at home? To remove oil smell from car quickly, clean any spills with automotive degreaser, replace the cabin air filter, vacuum the interior thoroughly, and ventilate the vehicle by leaving windows open.

3. Are commercial odor eliminators effective for how to remove oil smell from car? Yes, commercial odor eliminators designed for automotive use can be very effective. They neutralize odors absorbed in fabrics and upholstery, making them a useful part of how to remove oil smell from car.

4. How often should I check my cabin air filter to prevent oil smell? Regular inspection and replacement of your cabin air filter is a key part of how to remove oil smell from car and prevent it from returning. Filters should generally be replaced every 12,000 to 15,000 miles.

5. When is professional help needed for how to remove oil smell from car? Professional help is recommended if the oil smell persists after basic cleaning, if there are visible leaks, or if the odor is strong. Experts use advanced steam cleaning and detailing methods for effective removal.