How to get rid of this musty mildewy smell in my 2008 Honda Accord?

We've had a LOT of rainy weather the past 8 weeks and my 2008 Honda Accord has developed a funky smell. I realize it's possible that there's mildew or mold now growing somewhere in my car, but I've been unable to locate the source. I've checked the spare tire area in the trunk and nothing is there. Also there have been no leaks inside my car- the carpet hasn't been wet. I don't smell the musty smell when I'm turning on my AC so I don't think it could be caused by my cabin air filter. We've had a week of dry sunny weather now and the stink is still present when I get in my car. What can I do? Where is this smell coming from? Anyone w an 08 accord that has had similar issues?

Hose it down with Febreeze. Start with the carpets and work your way up.

If you don't have wet carpets from water leakage (can be really hard to detect), then the most likely source is the AC evaporator which naturally attracts mold and can be cleaned with special kits. Normally this would smell worse when you turn on the AC, but that does not match your details. Double check those and ensure you don't have any possibly damp rags or old t-shirts stuffed under a seat, etc. If none of those, you may have general dampness throughout the upholstery and carpeting due to extremely humid conditions or previous leaks, etc. Try to get the car dried out really good by parking in the sun, and also air it out.

There are three serious issues with this posting. First is that there's a leak somewhere in the car. This must be located because of rust issues. There are many possible locations for water to enter a vehicle. Only a mechanic can know where and how to look. The next issue is the clean up of the fabric or wet materials. That can be almost impossible until the source is located as water has an ability to and find secret ways to its destination. Then, the last issue is repairs. The leak might be a seal issue in the front or rear glass, around the wheel wells, from a moon roof, the door seals or windows. Then if there's rust then that is body work that needs to be addressed before it chews up the car. Sorry, but this can be something simple or more complex, cheap or expensive. Time to find a qualified mechanic or body shop or anyone that cares to tackle the issue.

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