my seatbelt STINKS!! (buy, replace, cost, Jeep)

[nms9747]

so I just purchased a certified used jeep, and while I was test driving it - I noticed an odor that was similar to dirty dish sponges.

I am not kidding!!

So after I purchased the car, I told the dealership to make sure its detailed and cleaned b/c it smells!

When I went to pick up the car, it smelled fine - until I put the seatbelt on!

I think the owner before me had dirty sweaty armpits and drove around with the seatbelt under his arm.

I tried using diluted vinegar & water and sprayed the seatbelt but it didn't work.


any one know how to get rid of the smell? People told me to try baking soda or febreeze but I don't think that would help....

advise?!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[ma5cmpb]

Try putting some Bounce dryer sheets in the car overnight. That might work

[dizzybint]

Originally Posted by ma5cmpb

Try putting some Bounce dryer sheets in the car overnight. That might work

oh no please dont.. the mix of the sweat and that horrible perfume... cant you get a new belt fitted. as I know if someone has sat in my seat with perfume on I have to clean it right away...try cleaning it with hot soapy water, rub hard into belt, repeating a few times.. dont put anything smelly on it though..

[BostonMike7]

Mix some simple green in water, dip a rag in it and scrub

That mix also does a good job in cleaning headliners

[George Chong]

Use some carpet cleaner on the seatbelt.

I have used Spot Shot Instant Carpet Stain Remover and Odor Eliminator: Official Site on my floor mats.

[Hemlock140]

Originally Posted by dizzybint

oh no please dont.. the mix of the sweat and that horrible perfume... cant you get a new belt fitted. as I know if someone has sat in my seat with perfume on I have to clean it right away...try cleaning it with hot soapy water, rub hard into belt, repeating a few times.. dont put anything smelly on it though..

Because the seatbelt is so thick, and so tightly woven, an odor that took many years to get into it is not going to come out quickly. At the very lest I would remove it, soak in water with upholstery cleaner, rinse well and dry, then re-install. That could be several days without being able to drive, so replacing it with a new one is the better option as dizzy suggested. About $200 at the dealer, plus installation if you can't do it yourself. What I would do is take it back, since you told them about it before, and make them change it out.

[unquiltom]

Ask the dealership to replace the seat belt.

[Seafood Junky]

frebreeze!

[BIG CATS]

Seat belt replacement is probably your only option.

[Mr5150]

Reason #25 why I prefer to buy new.

Reason #1 is we are Subaru nuts and it is cost effective. Five year old Subaru. 40% used up 20% less than new. We did the math.