How can we get rid of the smell of 'wet dog' in our Citroen Xsara Picasso?

Two weeks ago we purchased a 2007 Citroen Xsara Picasso VTX HDI 1,560cc, 65,000 miles, from a reputable local non-franchised dealer. We like the car very much. However, after removing the two interior scented deodorisers we have an unacceptable smell of damp dog, which gets much worse when air con is on. Do we have any redress with the dealer to rectify this smelly problem? We have yet to let them know of our concerns. Also are there any other known problems with this model to watch out for?

Asked on 28 May 2011 by BH, Colchester.

Answered by Honest John

If the problem is dog, then you need to find a valeter who can let off a special deodorising 'bomb' inside the car that permeates all the fabric and might get rid of the smell. If it's from bacteria growing in the a/c ducting then you need a different kind of 'bomb'. Autoglym does one. Car-by-car breakdown entry for the Xstra Picasso is here: www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/citroen/xsara-picass.../

Tags: unpleasant smells car cleaning interiors

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