Is new car off-gassing bad for you?

It can be, especially in the first weeks and in hot weather: the “new car smell” comes from volatile and semi-volatile chemicals released by interior materials, which can irritate eyes and airways and add to long-term exposure to compounds linked to cancer. For most healthy adults with typical driving, risks are low and can be reduced with ventilation and other steps, but children, pregnant people, and those with asthma may be more susceptible.

What off-gasses in a new car—and why it smells the way it does

Automakers use plastics, adhesives, foams, textiles, and sealants that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) as they cure and age. Heat and sunlight accelerate this process, so levels tend to spike in summer and in parked, sunlit cars. The compounds mix into the recognizable “new car” odor.

Below are common chemicals found in new vehicle interiors and what they do.

• Aldehydes (e.g., formaldehyde, acetaldehyde): off-gas from adhesives, resins, and textiles; can irritate eyes, nose, and throat.
• Aromatics (e.g., benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylenes): originate from plastics, foams, and fuels; some are known or suspected carcinogens (notably benzene).
• Styrene and ethylbenzene: components of plastics and foams; can cause irritation and headaches.
• Phthalates and other plasticizers: SVOCs used to soften vinyl/PVC; associated with endocrine and developmental effects in high or chronic exposures.
• Organophosphate flame retardants (e.g., TDCIPP, TCIPP) and other retardant classes: added to foams and textiles; several are associated with hormone and neurodevelopmental concerns.
• Isocyanate-derived polyurethane foam byproducts and other curing residues: typically highest in brand-new interiors.

The exact mix varies by make, model, materials, and climate. Electric vehicles still off-gas from interior materials, though they avoid fuel-related vapors; gasoline vehicles can add fuel-derived aromatics to the in-cabin mix.

What the science says about health risks

Peer-reviewed studies and nonprofit investigations consistently find that cabin concentrations of certain VOCs are highest in new vehicles and rise with heat. Short-term symptoms—headache, dizziness, throat and eye irritation—are well documented. Longer drives and hotter interiors increase dose. Some compounds, notably benzene and formaldehyde, are linked to cancer at sufficient long-term exposures; studies modeling commuting exposures have estimated that, in a share of scenarios, lifetime risk benchmarks commonly used by regulators could be exceeded, especially with long, daily commutes in warm conditions. Levels typically decline over weeks to months.

Short-term effects

Acute exposure to elevated VOCs and SVOCs can trigger headaches, drowsiness, nausea, coughing, eye/nose/throat irritation, and can exacerbate asthma. These effects are more likely when a car has been baking in the sun or during the first months of ownership.

Long-term concerns

Chronic, low-level exposure to specific compounds (e.g., benzene, formaldehyde; certain flame retardants and plasticizers) is associated in epidemiologic or toxicologic literature with cancer or developmental and endocrine effects. Real-world risk depends on cumulative exposure across environments (home, work, traffic), not just the car.

Real-world measurements

Researchers in North America, Europe, and Asia have measured in-cabin VOCs in hundreds of vehicles. Findings commonly show: higher total VOCs in new cars; sharp increases with cabin temperature; and detectable flame retardants in car air and dust, peaking in summer. Some studies modeling daily commuting have flagged potential exceedances of health-based benchmarks for carcinogens under certain conditions. Several countries publish in-vehicle air quality guidelines and ISO standards exist for testing, but the U.S. has no binding federal limits for in-cabin VOCs in passenger cars.

Who should be most cautious

While most drivers won’t experience severe effects, certain groups have lower margins for exposure and may benefit most from mitigation steps.

• Infants and children, whose bodies are still developing and breathe more air per body weight.
• Pregnant people, due to fetal sensitivity to some chemicals.
• People with asthma, COPD, allergies, or chemical sensitivities.
• Professional drivers and long commuters with hours of daily in-cabin time.
• Residents in hot, sunny climates, where temperatures and off-gassing peak.

If you fall into these categories, focusing on ventilation, cooling, and filtration can meaningfully reduce exposure without sacrificing the convenience of a new vehicle.

How to reduce exposure in a new car

The following steps, prioritized by impact and practicality, can substantially cut your exposure during the high off-gassing period (first weeks to months) and during hot spells.

1. Air it out daily: On initial drives, open all windows for a minute or two and run the fan on fresh-air intake to purge built-up VOCs, especially after the car sits in the sun.
2. Keep it cool: Park in shade or garages and use windshield sunshades. Lower cabin temperatures can reduce emissions several-fold.
3. Pre-cool before entering: If possible, start the car and run A/C on fresh air with windows cracked briefly; many vehicles allow remote ventilation.
4. Upgrade the cabin air filter: Choose an activated carbon (charcoal) or carbon-plus-HEPA cabin filter and replace it on schedule; this helps remove some VOCs and traffic fumes.
5. Consider a small in-car purifier: Use a unit with HEPA plus activated carbon sized for vehicle cabins. Avoid ozone generators or ionizers that can create lung irritants.
6. Gentle cleaning: Wipe surfaces with mild soap and water or manufacturer-recommended cleaners; avoid strong solvents and fragranced products that add VOCs.
7. Skip added fragrances: Air fresheners, scented sprays, and some vinyl wraps add emissions; if used, choose low-emission products sparingly.
8. Let time work: Off-gassing declines markedly over weeks to months; if sensitive, consider lightly used cars (6–12 months old) or extend test drives to assess comfort.
9. Protect kids: Choose “no added flame retardants” child seats when available, air out the cabin before buckling in, use sunshades for rear windows, and encourage handwashing after contact with interior dust.
10. Optimize airflow while driving: Start on fresh air to flush, then use recirculation in heavy traffic to cut outdoor pollution. Toggle back to fresh periodically to manage CO2 buildup.

Taken together, these actions can transform the in-cabin environment—most are low-cost and immediately effective, particularly in warm weather when off-gassing is highest.

Buying considerations that can lower chemical exposure

Some choices at purchase can further reduce exposure, though options vary by brand and model.

• Ask about interior materials and low-VOC claims; some automakers test to ISO in-vehicle air quality standards.
• Favor fabric or leather alternatives certified low in VOCs over PVC-heavy interiors when possible.
• Evaluate with your senses: during a test drive with windows up and the cabin warm, note odors or irritation.
• Check independent assessments from labs or nonprofits that analyze vehicle interiors and child car seats for flame retardants and plasticizers.
• Consider lighter interior colors and heat-reflective options that keep cabins cooler.
• Remember: EVs and hybrids still off-gas from interior materials, but they avoid fuel vapor sources common to gasoline vehicles.

While no car is chemical-free, informed choices can narrow exposure from day one and make post-purchase mitigation easier.

Bottom line

The “new car smell” is chemistry, not magic—and it comes with trade-offs. For most drivers, it’s an irritant more than a serious hazard, but it contributes to cumulative chemical exposure and can be problematic in heat or for sensitive individuals. Ventilation, temperature control, and better filtration dramatically reduce levels, and emissions diminish over time. If you’re concerned, pair simple daily habits with smart buying choices.

Summary

New car off-gassing is a mix of VOCs and SVOCs from interior materials that peaks when the car is new and in hot weather. It can cause short-term irritation and adds to long-term exposure to chemicals such as benzene and formaldehyde. Risks are generally low for healthy adults with typical driving but higher for children, pregnant people, those with asthma, and long-distance drivers. Practical steps—ventilating, keeping the cabin cool, using carbon cabin filters (and optional HEPA/carbon purifiers), gentle cleaning, and mindful product choices—substantially reduce exposure, and levels decline over weeks to months.

Is off-gassing bad for your health?

Yes, off-gassing can be dangerous because it releases Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) into the air, which can cause health issues ranging from headaches and respiratory irritation to more severe problems like organ damage or cancer, especially with prolonged exposure. While most people experience only mild, temporary symptoms like dizziness or eye irritation, vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions are at greater risk. The severity of health effects depends on the type and concentration of VOCs, as well as the length of exposure.
 
What is Off-Gassing?

• Off-gassing is the release of chemicals, primarily VOCs, from newly manufactured products like mattresses, furniture, and building materials. 
• These chemicals become airborne and can be inhaled, affecting indoor air quality. 

Health Effects of VOCs

• Short-Term Symptoms: Headaches, nausea, dizziness, eye, nose, and throat irritation, fatigue, and worsened allergy or asthma symptoms. 
• Long-Term Effects: Potential for respiratory illnesses, organ damage (kidneys, liver), neurological disorders, and certain types of cancer. 

Who Is Most at Risk?

• Infants and Children: Their respiratory systems are still developing, making them more susceptible. 
• Elderly Individuals: Their immune systems may be more vulnerable. 
• People with Respiratory Conditions: Those with asthma or other respiratory issues can have their symptoms triggered or worsened. 
• Individuals with Compromised Immune Systems: People with weakened immune systems are more at risk. 

How to Reduce Risk

• Ventilate: Open windows and doors to bring fresh air into your home and help dissipate VOCs. 
• Choose Certified Products: Look for products with certifications like Greenguard Certification, which indicates low chemical emissions. 
• Consider Materials: Opt for furniture and mattresses made from natural or low-VOC materials. 
• Air Out Products: Allow new items like mattresses or furniture to off-gas in a well-ventilated area before using them indoors. 

Is car interior off-gassing toxic?

Health Effects of Car Interior Offgassing
VOCs in new cars can cause many short-term health effects, including: Headaches. Dizziness. Eye, nose, and throat irritation.

Is new car smell bad for your health?

Yes, the “new car smell” can be toxic because it contains Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)—chemicals like formaldehyde and benzene that off-gas from glues, paints, and plastics in the car’s interior. While concentrations are usually low, long-term or high exposure can cause symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, and respiratory irritation, with some VOCs posing risks like cancer, liver damage, or neurological issues. To mitigate risks, ensure good ventilation by cracking windows, especially on warm days, to remove VOCs from the enclosed space.
 
What is the “New Car Smell”? 

• The smell originates from VOCs released from the car’s interior materials through a process called “outgassing”.
• Materials like upholstery, adhesives, paints, plastics, and sealants release these chemicals.

Health Concerns

• Acute (Short-Term) Symptoms: Inhaling VOCs can cause headaches, dizziness, eye, nose, and throat irritation, nausea, and difficulty concentrating. 
• Vulnerable Populations: Children, the elderly, and individuals with allergies or asthma are particularly sensitive to VOCs. 
• Chronic (Long-Term) Effects: Prolonged exposure may lead to serious health concerns, including chronic respiratory problems, liver and kidney damage, and an increased risk of certain cancers. 

What You Can Do

• Ensure Ventilation: Regularly air out your car to promote air circulation, which helps filter out VOC-laden air. 
• Be Cautious with Long-Term Exposure: While a short drive is unlikely to cause damage, extended periods in a poorly ventilated new car can increase your risk. 
• Reduce Exposure Over Time: The new car smell and its associated VOCs naturally fade as the materials stop outgassing. 

Can the smell of a new car make you sick?

Many people enjoy that straight-out-of-the-showroom smell, but it’s also not unheard of for it to prompt feelings of nausea. The cause is likely to be the so-called volatile organic compounds (VOCs) leeching out of the fabric, plastics and adhesives used inside the car.