Hi,
I have a problem with a bad smell (like a sick smell) when I first switch the Air Conditioning on. This lasts for about 5 minutes. I have a late 2002 UK 2.0 litre Turbo Diesel model (right hand drive). Is there a filter that needs replacing? If so where is the filter and how easy is it to access/change on my car ? Would appreciate any help on this matter.
Thanks, Dave.

Try this:

http://www.santafemods.com/Mods/CabinAirFilter.htm

Hi TheTut,
Thank you very much for your suggestion. I have been to the link and had a look. I'm sure I can do this job myself -it doesn't appear to be too difficult. Once again, thanks for your help.
Dave.

Dear bedver,

If the filter does not help your problem, your heater box may be retaining water. The drain from the heater box(which also holds the A/C chill core) is easily clogged with mold and algae. You can tell if your drain is working by just checking for a puddle under your Santa Fe with the A/C running...you should get a steady drip .

If no drip, try reaming the drain hose to clear out the clog. In the US, we use a piece of straight coat hanger wire and run this in and out of the drain hose until all of the mold flows out.

Byron

I had the same issue. I ordered a new Cabin Air Filter from O'Reilly Autoparts.
I went to install the new filter only to find out there wasn't a filter in there!
There were bugs and leaves in there decomposing.
I cleaned out the slot and vacumed out the debris.
Put in the Wix filter and all is well.
It cost $22 and fit perfectly.

Good luck,
Rick