Case Study: Effective Remediation of Water Damage and Mold in a 2019 Subaru Crosstrek

September 14, 2024

AC drainage issues can pose the tricky problem of sneaky vehicle water damage, turning your car into a breeding ground for mold, causing health risks. Oftentimes, water improperly drains onto the super absorbent padding on the underside of the interior carpets. This problem normally occurs after a blockage in the AC outlet hose, when the hose is shifted out of place, or with kinks or bends in the hose, leaking water inside of the vehicle. This enclosed, waterlogged carpet is a source of moisture, creating the perfect place for mildew, mold and bacteria growth. 

The dark, humid environment of a car, especially under the carpet, provides ideal conditions for mold spores, which are present everywhere in the air to settle, grow and thrive. The absorbent carpet fibers and padding act like a sponge, absorbing and retaining moisture. This trapped water, combined with the lack of airflow and sunlight under the carpet, creates the perfect environment for mold to multiply rapidly, often undetected until a musty odor becomes noticeable, if not unbearable.

A person wearing blue gloves is cleaning the interior of a car folding over the carpet to reveal sound deadening padding

We were presented with a 2019 Subaru Crosstrek, where the customer had claimed to have absorbed the moisture left from the AC leakage using a wet vac. When the vehicle came in, we noticed standing moisture coming from the area of concern, underneath the passenger seat, by wicking our glove on the surface. The smell of waterlogging was present along with a musty, mildewy scent. 


By the smell of standing water, mildew and the presence of moisture on the surface of the carpets that hadn’t subsided after weeks, we diagnosed that the carpet had water damage that we would have to further investigate. After disconnecting the battery, we removed the trim, front and back seats, and lifted both the driver and passenger side of the carpets in order to assess the level of damage. There was no pooling of water present, but we noticed a large amount of water absorbed into the underside of the carpet. When wrung out by hand, a few ounces of water spilled out of the carpet with little effort. 

This water absorbed into the padding had reached all the way to the underside of the driver’s seat and required extraction of the entire carpet.


Because we could access the entire carpet and extract the moisture, we were able to salvage the carpet without requiring a replacement. Using an industrial grade extractor, the Mytee HP90 Stingray Heated Carpet Extractor, we were able to get the carpet and underpadding dry to the surface, removing the excess moisture from the vehicle. The heated function of this extractor is crucial as it not only speeds up the drying process but also helps to kill mold spores more effectively.

A few steps were taken to stabilize the levels of mildew inside of the vehicle, including using a mold inhibitor on these carpets, including the underside where water damage was present and the chassis of the vehicle where the carpet made contact with the vehicle. With the use of industrial air movers, we were able to dry both sides of the carpet before reassembly. 

A super fan sits in a car

All surfaces, plastics, upholstery and seats were steamed and treated with mold treatment. This combination eliminated musty odors in the process by killing the source. Once treated, seats, carpets and trim were clipped back into place. Upon reconnecting the battery, we ran the heat to finish drying the vehicle and ran an ozone generator, recirculating through the vents to kill any remaining spores and eliminate odors. 


After using the machine, we conditioned all plastics in order to revive the oxidized surfaces. 


Each step of the process in water damaged cars plays a large role in effective remediation. The vacuuming step, for example, is as important as the mold removal process, because eliminating organic matter and food particles inside of the vehicle creates a lesser chance for the recurrence of mold or mildew. Leaf debris for example, can decompose, providing a food source for mold spores. 


When a vehicle has a history of mold, we always recommend to minimize food and moisture inside of the vehicle. Routine cleaning also prevents the recurrence of the issue, removing bacteria and minimizing spore accumulation and the accumulation of other microorganisms. 


Each vehicle is handled on a case by case basis and may need to be treated differently. For this approach, when extracting the carpets, it made sense to use minimal amounts of water when doing

 a heated extraction to prevent the reintroduction of moisture. This vehicle showed improvement between this level of extraction, steaming and mildewstat treatment. In other cases, with more persistent smells, or visible mold rather than mildew, more intensive cleaning and extraction may be necessary to fully remedy the issue, along with longer drying time.


When performing mildew or mold removal, it is important to address all the surfaces that the spores may have come into contact with, even if there is no smell or visible indicators of contamination present. This provides the best chances to prevent future infestation. For this vehicle, we ensured headliner, vents, trim, plastics, windows, etc. were treated and processed thoroughly through multiple levels of remediation methods to ensure that spores were minimized as much as possible.


Other Considerations


When using the air pushers, it is important to move the air in harder to reach areas like corners and under trims, (e.g. under center console) to prevent fungal growth in hidden areas. We also recommend moving the direction of the air frequently in order to avoid any missed spots where carpets could still be holding moisture.


With the use of the ozone machine, we recommend drying the vehicle first and removing any air fresheners in order to best target the mold and mildew smells.


Mold emits harmful VOC and should be treated as a major health hazard. We always recommend using the appropriate PPE when handling mold, including masks, goggles, protective gloves and suits. Failure to use the proper equipment can result in lung damage, respiratory illness or other mold related disease.


Always Consult A Pro


This case study is created for illustrative purposes only, and should not serve as a guide for at home mold remediation. Attempting to handle mold infestation without proper training, equipment, and safety precautions can pose serious health risks. Mold spores can become airborne during cleaning, leading to inhalation and potential respiratory problems, especially for individuals with allergies or sensitivities. If you suspect mold growth in your vehicle, it's crucial to consult with a qualified mold remediation professional. They can provide a thorough assessment, develop a safe and effective remediation plan, and help you restore your vehicle to a healthy and odor-free environment.

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Why Vehicle Owners Choose Westchester Auto Detail in White Plains

July 10, 2025
At Westchester Auto Detail, we don’t offer basic car washes. We specialize in high-end detailing, ceramic coatings, and remediation services for drivers who want results—not shortcuts. Whether you're protecting a new vehicle, restoring one that’s been neglected, or addressing deeper issues like mold or water damage, we deliver serious solutions with real long-term value. Ceramic Coatings That Last Our ceramic coating packages aren’t cosmetic. They’re engineered to protect your paint, reduce maintenance, and enhance gloss for years—not weeks. Available in 3-year, 6-year, and lifetime options Full prep included with every service Proper installation by trained technicians Paint-only or full-vehicle packages available We use advanced nano-ceramic technology with proven durability. Your coating is applied in a controlled environment and cured properly to bond with the paint. Correction Before Protection If your paint doesn’t look its best, we fix that first. Our correction process removes swirls, haze, oxidation, and other defects that keep your paint from shining. Single-stage and multi-stage paint correction Scratch reduction and gloss enhancement Machine polishing and panel-specific repair Every coating client receives an honest assessment of the paint’s condition. If it needs more than a light polish, we’ll make it right before protecting it. More Than Clean — Full Restoration Services We specialize in deep-cleaning and restorative services for vehicles affected by water damage, long-term storage, and high use. That includes: Mold and mildew remediation Ozone treatment and enzyme cleaning Water intrusion recovery Full interior reconditioning Standard detailing won’t fix these issues. Our biohazard-level services are designed to treat interiors safely and thoroughly. Trusted by Car Owners Who Care We work with clients who value quality—daily drivers, collectors, luxury owners, and professionals who expect attention to detail. Located at The Westchester in White Plains, our studio serves clients from across Westchester County and beyond. Recognized by Best of Westchester 5-star rated with consistent results Specializing in high-end vehicles and serious care Get a Quote or Consultation We don’t push packages that don’t make sense. Every quote is tailored, every recommendation based on real inspection—not sales scripts. If you’re ready for better care, request a consultation. We’ll help you choose the service that fits your goals, vehicle condition, and long-term plans.  Explore Ceramic Coatings → See Our Detailing Services → Contact Us →

What To Do When Water Gets Into Your Car

July 1, 2025
Why quick action is critical — and why standard detailing won’t cut it Finding water inside your vehicle can be stressful- whether it’s from a rainstorm, a clogged sunroof drain, or a slow leak that’s gone unnoticed. Acting fast and taking the right steps can be the difference between a quick fix and a long-term mold problem. Here’s what to do immediately after you notice water intrusion inside of your vehicle. Step 1: Dry the Interior as Thoroughly as Possible Start by removing any standing water using towels or a wet/dry vacuum. Take out floor mats, open the doors or windows (weather permitting), and run fans or a dehumidifier to accelerate drying. But here's what most people don’t realize: Water often seeps deep beneath the carpet and insulation into areas that aren’t visible or accessible without disassembly. Even if the surface feels dry, moisture can linger for days underneath, creating the perfect conditions for mildew and mold to thrive. Step 2: Identify and Repair the Source of the Leak Drying the car is only part of the solution. If the source of the leak isn’t fixed, it’s only a matter of time before the problem returns. Common culprits include: Clogged sunroof or cowl drains Deteriorated door or trunk seals Faulty windshield or rear window seals Leaks in the HVAC system We always recommend having a technician or body shop inspect the vehicle to confirm and repair the root cause before any remediation work begins. Step 3: Bring the Vehicle to a Qualified Water Damage Specialist While it’s tempting to book a basic detail and hope for the best, standard detailing is not designed to handle water intrusion . Water that’s soaked into your vehicle’s padding, insulation, or lower cabin areas requires: Deep extraction to pull moisture from beneath the carpet Steam sanitization to kill bacteria and prevent mold growth Targeted enzyme treatments for contaminated surfaces Ozone or air disinfection to neutralize musty odors Inspection, treatment or replacement of soaked components like cabin filters or insulation This is the level of care that we offer at Westchester Auto Detail , and it’s essential for preventing long-term health risks, corrosion, and persistent odors. Don’t Wait — Water Damage Worsens Over Time Mold doesn’t just smell bad — it can damage your vehicle’s interior, affect air quality, and reduce resale value. The longer moisture lingers, the more likely you’ll face costly repairs down the line. If your car has been exposed to water, especially if it smells musty or shows visible signs of mold, don’t rely on surface cleaning. Bring it to a team that specializes in water damage and mold remediation . 💡 Need Help Now? At Westchester Auto Detail , we offer professional-grade mold remediation and interior decontamination services tailored for water-damaged vehicles. We work with daily drivers, vintage cars, and everything in between. Contact us today to schedule a consultation — we’re here to help you breathe easy again.

Top 7 Car Detailing Tips Every PCO Driver Should Know

June 25, 2025
Your PCO car is your business, and just like any business, first impressions matter. A clean, well-detailed car instantly impresses passengers and improves their overall ride experience, leading to positive feedback and ratings. Imagine driving a car with sticky windows, coffee stains on the seats, or dirt accumulated in corners. The passengers will be instantly put off. Some may even consider cancelling the ride, which can directly affect your daily earnings. With car detailing, you can keep these issues at bay. Detailing is different from the standard car wash as it is a thorough process to improve your vehicle’s appearance and preserve its condition. If you are using PCO car hire , then your car provider will handle the detailing process. However, if you drive your own car, then you should know the following tips to keep your car well-detailed.  Use the Two Bucket Wash Method Some drivers use a single bucket to wash their cars. This is not an ideal approach as every time you dip the wash mitt into the dirty water and rub it on the surface, you grind dirt and grit right into it, resulting in swirl marks, dullness, or micro-scratches. Over time, this could make your sleek vehicle look neglected, and you will need a paint correction service to restore its original look. That’s why smart drivers use the two-bucket wash method. One bucket contains clean, soapy water while the other bucket is for rinsing your mitt. This prevents the dirt and grit from damaging the vehicle surface and helps you get better results. It’s a small step with a huge impact. Invest in a Quality Interior Cleaner A cheap cleaner may save you money upfront, but it can cost you more in the long run. This is because many cheap interior cleaners leave behind a strong smell, fade fast, and could damage materials. Some even soak into fabric seats and turn them into odour traps. Some passengers are allergic to strong smells, and if your car smells like chemicals, they will consider other options. Now, imagine losing rides because of that. You will end up losing more money than you had saved by buying a cheap product. So, always use a quality interior cleaner, one that doesn’t have a lingering smell, doesn’t damage materials, and works on various surfaces such as dashboards, leather, vinyl, and plastic. Bonus points if it’s safe to use around sensitive areas like infotainment screens. Vacuum the Car Regularly Dust and crumbs can build up under the seats, in footwells, and between the seat cushions. Sometimes, regular cleaning is not enough to remove them from your car. You need to vacuum it to properly get rid of them. So, get yourself a cordless vacuum and use it at least twice a week, particularly if you are doing long shifts, because the more passengers you pick up, the faster the mess builds up. However, there’s no hard and fast rule as to how often you should vacuum the car. Watch for passengers who eat food during a ride. If any crumbs are left behind, vacuum the car immediately to provide the next passengers with a clean environment. Don’t Forget the Headliner Headliner is the ceiling of the car. Many drivers ignore it, thinking it’s not as important as other parts of the car. However, this is a big mistake. Like any other area, the headliner can accumulate dust, grease, odours, and airborne grime. In fact, most smells in the car stick to the headliner. The food you ate during a break, the coffee a passenger just drank in your car, or even the sweat from riders - those smells all cling to the headliner. Once these smells settle, no amount of air freshener will hide them. That’s why you should regularly clean the headliner as well. Remember to use a microfibre cloth with a gentle cleaner and lightly wipe the surface. Don’t scrub too hard, as it can loosen the glue underneath. Keep Microfibre Cloths in Your Glovebox Whether you drive your own vehicle or PCO rental cars , you should always have microfibre cloths within arm’s reach during your shifts because you may need them at any time. Let’s suppose someone touches your car's windows and leaves behind oily fingerprints, sneezes near the dashboard, or spills coffee. A microfibre cloth will help you clean the surface immediately. These cloths are designed to remove dirt, dust, and oil at microscopic level without scratching the surface. Keep at least four sets of microfibre cloths in your car: one for glass surfaces, one for interior plastics, one for emergency spills, and one for wet cleaning. Use a Detailing Brush for Vents and Buttons Vents and buttons are among the most-used parts of PCO cars. Dirt and grime could quickly build up in these areas and negatively impact the appearance of your car’s interior. Many PCO drivers use a detailing brush for vents and buttons. Remember that a detailing brush is different from a toothbrush or a paintbrush. It comes with soft-bristles specially designed for narrow and delicate surfaces. It’s gentle enough to prevent scratches, but strong enough to pull out dirt, hair, crumbs, and other mess from areas where microfibre cloths don’t work. The best part is that it’s affordable and takes just a few minutes to clean. Schedule a Monthly Deep Clean Despite the regular DIY cleaning, you should book a monthly deep clean with a professional company as well. Make sure every inch of your vehicle gets attention during that session. Get the carpets shampooed to remove the buildup of dirt, salt, and spilt takeaways. The seats, especially if they’re made of fabric, should be steam-cleaned, while the vents and even cupholders need to be scrubbed spotless. The same goes for the outside. Get your car body properly polished and waxed. Make sure the scratches are fixed with a scratch removal and repair service, and the tyres should get some treatment as well. The cleaner the car, the better the passenger experience. Conclusion The way you present your car matters a lot. A clean, well-detailed vehicle sets the tone for a pleasant passenger experience that ultimately results in five-star ratings. On the other hand, a car that looks dull and neglected could leave a negative impression on the passengers. Start following the tips we mentioned above, and you will instantly notice a difference in how the riders respond.
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