How ozone works, and where it falls short

Ozone is an unstable form of oxygen that reacts with many odor-causing molecules, changing them into compounds that may smell less or not at all. In a small, sealed cabin a generator can reach high concentrations quickly, which is why detailers have used it for years as a finishing step. The problem is that ozone works at the surface. It does not lift spilled milk from a carpet pad, clean tar film off a headliner or wash pepper oil out of seat fabric.

When the source is still there, odor tends to return as the ozone breaks down and the residue warms up in the next hot spell. Owners who pay for a quick ozone shock and see the smell come back a week later have usually run into this. Used as a final step after the actual cleaning, ozone can help with what remains. Used instead of cleaning, it mostly delays the problem.

What long or repeated ozone exposure can affect

Material
Rubber seals and gaskets
Possible effect
Drying, hardening, fine cracking
Where you would notice
Door and window seals, sunroof gaskets
Material
Elastic and stretch fabrics
Possible effect
Loss of stretch, brittleness
Where you would notice
Seat map pockets, elastic straps
Material
Some plastics and vinyl
Possible effect
Fading or chalky surface over time
Where you would notice
Dashboard top, door panel inserts
Material
Electronics and screens
Possible effect
Concern raised by some manufacturers about prolonged exposure
Where you would notice
Owner's manual warnings, if any
Material
Leather
Possible effect
Potential drying with heavy exposure
Where you would notice
Steering wheel and seat bolsters

Damage depends on concentration, duration and the age of the materials. Older cars and repeated treatments carry more risk.

If a provider plans to use ozone, ask

  1. Is ozone the main treatment, or a final step after cleaning the sources?
  2. How long will the generator run, and at what output?
  3. How will the car be aired out before I pick it up?
  4. Are there alternatives, such as chlorine dioxide or hydroxyl treatment, and why would you choose one over another?
  5. Has my car's age or condition changed your plan?

Ozone versus residue removal

Ozone alone

  • Fast and inexpensive to run
  • Reduces some airborne and surface odor
  • Leaves the original residue in place
  • Smell often returns with heat and humidity
  • Can age rubber and plastics with repeated use

Source cleaning first

  • Takes longer and costs more labor
  • Removes what is actually causing the smell
  • Reaches pad, foam and headliner when done properly
  • Results hold up better through Colorado summers
  • May still finish with a short deodorizing step

General information for Aurora, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.