Why does my Volkswagen Passat have a strange smell when I turn on the AC?

I've noticed that whenever I turn on the AC in my Volkswagen Passat, there is a weird smell coming from the vents. It's not a strong odor, but it's noticeable. Is this something I should be concerned about or is it just a normal thing?

It's possible that you have a build-up of mold or mildew in your AC system. This can happen if your AC has not been used for a while or if the air filter is dirty. I would recommend getting your AC system inspected and cleaned to get rid of any potential mold or mildew.

Another potential cause for the strange smell could be a leak in your AC system. If there is a leak, it can allow moisture to build up and create a musty smell. I suggest taking your car to a mechanic to have them check for any leaks and repair them if necessary.

Sometimes, the problem can be as simple as changing your cabin air filter. If your filter is dirty or clogged, it can cause odors to linger in your car. I recommend checking your owner's manual to see when your filter was last changed and replacing it if needed.