Odors like smoke, mildew, and pet accidents don’t just make a car unpleasant; they can sink resale value and turn away customers.
Even after thorough vacuuming and shampooing, stubborn smells can remain trapped in seats, carpets, and HVAC systems. That’s why more professional detailers are turning to ozone generators for car detailing—a powerful tool that eliminates odors at the molecular level, not just masks them.
If you’re aiming for true odor removal and interior sanitization, knowing how to use an ozone generator gives you a real edge.
Benefits of Ozone Generators
Ozone generators are one of the most effective tools available for permanent odor removal. Whether you’re targeting cigarette smoke, pet odor, food spills, or musty smells from mildew, ozone gas eliminates the cause of the odor, not just the smell.
Why ozone is a top choice:
- Penetrates embedded odors in carpets, seats, vents, and more
- Destroys organic material from cigarette smoke, mold, mildew, and vomit
- No need for harsh chemicals—just clean, seal, and let it run
- Highly effective when paired with enzyme cleaners like Bio-Zyme
- A high-impact, low-labor upsell service for shops and mobile units
Why use an ozone generator in car detailing?
Ozone molecules break apart odor-causing bacteria by destroying them at the molecular level. Unlike masking sprays or air fresheners, ozone neutralizes smells at the source, even those hidden in upholstery foam, headliners, or air ducts.
It’s also a disinfectant that kills bacteria and mildew, making the air inside the vehicle cleaner and safer.
How to Use Ozone Generators in Cars
Ozone can remove odors brought about by food spills, milk, vomit, blood, urine, feces, body odor, mold/mildew, cigarettes, and other foul substances containing bacteria molecules.
Before you treat the vehicle with ozone, you must clean the odor source—or the results won’t last.
Here’s how to how to safely and effectively use an ozone machine in a car:
- Pre-clean the source of the odor using an enzyme-based cleaner like Bio-Zyme.
- Vacuum and extract all carpets and upholstery thoroughly.
- Place the ozone generator in the center of the vehicle interior (center console or back seat).
- Close all windows and doors.
- Run the machine for 1 to 8 hours, depending on the size of the machine, odor severity, and vehicle size.
- After the cycle, open all doors and ventilate thoroughly for at least 30 minutes.
- Repeat if needed for deep smoke or pet odors.
- Optionally, apply a light interior fragrance for a finishing touch.
Important: Never run the ozone generator while anyone is inside the vehicle. Ozone is safe when used properly, but exposure can irritate the lungs, and it removes the oxygen from the air making it impossible to breathe.
How Long to Run an Ozone Generator in a Car?
Run time depends on the size of the vehicle and how strong the odor is:
- Mild odors (food, minor smoke): 30–60 minutes
- Moderate odors (cigarettes, mildew): 2–4 hours
- Severe cases (years of smoke, neglected interiors): 6–8 hours or multiple treatments
For commercial jobs or used car flips, longer cycles deliver better odor neutralization.
Why Bio-Zyme?
Detail King’s Bio-Zyme Enzyme Automotive Interior Cleaner breaks down and kills bacteria and organic residue, which will greatly reduce odors and leave only a lingering residual odor behind. Using Bio-Zyme with a carpet extractor drastically improves odor elimination.
Ozone Generator FAQs
How much are ozone generators?
Professional ozone generators for cars range from $400–$1,200, ideal for detailers and used car dealers. High-capacity commercial ozone machines for large spaces can range from $1,200–$3,000.
Is ozone treatment safe for cars?
Yes, but it can dry out surfaces. For older vehicles, it helps to condition vinyl and leather before and after treatment to prevent cracking.
Will ozone remove smoke smells from a car?
Yes, if the vehicle is properly cleaned first. Ozone can neutralize cigarette smoke odor in upholstery, headliners, AC vents, and padding when used correctly.
Can ozone remove mold or mildew odors?
Yes, but the source of moisture must be resolved first. Ozone will kill mold spores in the air and eliminate odor from damp fabrics or vents
How do you clean a car before ozone treatment?
Ozone treatment should be the last step performed after cleaning and detailing a car interior – check out our full guide to interior detailing.
How much should you charge for ozone treatment?
Detailers typically charge $50–$100+ per hour depending on vehicle size and odor severity. It’s a high-margin add-on that doesn’t require active labor once the machine is running.
Whether you’re a mobile detailer or operating a fixed-location shop, using an ozone generator in car detailing can be a game-changer for your business. It’s one of the most effective, low-effort ways to add value—and your customers will absolutely appreciate a truly odor-free interior.