Expert explains what 'new car smell' really is and why it can't be recreated
Published on Jul 18, 2025 at 8:18 PM (UTC+4)
by Daisy Edwards
Last updated on Jul 18, 2025 at 8:18 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Amelia Jean Hershman-Jones
You’ve just bought yourself a sweet new ride that smells really good, but this expert has explained what that iconic ‘new car smell’ really is and why it can’t (or shouldn’t) be recreated.
People seem to unanimously agree that new cars smell really good, but it turns out that, according to experts, the lovely smell might not be very good for us.
The smell does disappear after some time, but after finding out what causes the famous ‘new car smell’, it’s probably a good thing that it doesn’t stick around forever.
The revelation might explain why car automakers are actually trying to get rid of the odor once and for all, because it smells good, but isn’t very good for you.
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What really is the ‘new car smell’?
When you get a brand new car, often one of the nicest things (other than having a brand new car, duh) is sniffing that lovely ‘new car smell‘.
Sadly, it always seems to dissipate after a few weeks, but turns out that might actually be a good thing, according to an expert.
The ‘new car smell’ is actually caused by elements called volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which smell nice, but it turns out are not good for you.
The VOCs are scientifically known to be off-gassing in your car and can be found in materials in your car like the seats, dashboard, and all the little plastic components.
The VOCs aren’t 100 percent safe, but with only 50 to 60 percent of the chemicals found in a new car in low doses, luckily, there probably won’t be long-term effects on your body.
The smell can’t be recreated
VOCs break down at a rate of 20 percent each week, which is why the smell of new cars dissipates over a few weeks, but this makes sense why automakers think it would be too dangerous to try and recreate it.
If you are constantly inhaling VOCs over a long time, this could cause things like headaches, drowsiness, nausea, and even cancer.
Experts are advising new car owners to keep their windows open so that they don’t keep sniffing the dangerous smells.
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Daisy is a technology journalist, covering artificial intelligence, consumer tech, Apple news, cryptocurrency, digital business, and emerging technologies. Since joining the team in 2025, she has reported on everything from AI-powered startups and major iOS updates to viral tech hacks and the latest developments in the digital economy. Drawing on her background in automotive journalism and a degree in History and Journalism from Goldsmiths, University of London, Daisy specializes in breaking down complex technology stories into clear, engaging reporting for a global audience. Her work focuses on the products, platforms, and innovations that are transforming the way people work, communicate, and interact with technology. Daisy has gained first-hand access to some of the world's most talked-about technologies and innovators, including meeting Tesla's Optimus humanoid robot during its first European appearance in London. She has also discussed the future of space exploration with an astronaut, bringing unique insights and real-world perspectives to her coverage of emerging technology.
