Frequently Asked Questions

In most cars, yes. The film comes off the headliner, seats, carpet and glass, and the ventilation system gets treated as part of the whole cabin. A car smoked in daily for years may need a second round, and a stained headliner sometimes has to be replaced.

Hard surfaces and vents are wiped to lift the pepper oil, the cabin air filter is replaced, and upholstery is treated. Fabric that soaked up a lot may need replacing. Comprehensive auto coverage sometimes applies, so call your insurer before cleanup starts.

Water collects on the evaporator behind the dash and in the ducts, and that damp surface grows the smell. A new cabin filter and a treatment through the vents often fix it. If it keeps coming back, have a mechanic check the A/C drain and the door seals.

Ask what products go into the car, whether any contain ozone, bleach or synthetic fragrance, and how long the car should air out before you drive it.

For about a week. Fragrance sits on top of the smell, and the residue underneath is still in the foam, pad and vents when it fades.

Ask before you book. Treatment time depends on the vehicle and the smell, and some jobs take most of a day.

Ozone can age rubber seals and plastic trim. Ask whether it's part of the plan, for how long, and how the car gets aired out afterward.

The fragrance ran out and the residue didn't. Seats, carpet, headliner and vents still need actual treatment.

Usually. Hard surfaces and vents get cleaned, the cabin filter gets replaced and upholstery gets treated. Check whether your comprehensive coverage applies before work starts.

Yes. Ask for a written quote after someone has looked at the car.

Treatment often takes part of a day. Confirm drop-off and pickup times before you book.