Need advice on getting rid of smoke smell in 4Runner

[kathleenbrd]

Just drove 18 hours to buy a 2002 black 4Runner for my son. Little did I know that the previous owner smoked in it for several years. I've cleaned and cleaned and still have the smell. Any advice on how to get rid of it? Thanks!

 

[2014 Warthog]

Not sure how much work you want to get into or $$$ to pay, but you might have to remove the interior carpet and steam clean it. Then there is the headliner, I don't think you can steam clean that without damaging it. Can try but might consider having to buy or pay to have a new one put in :/ Also steam clean the seats if they are cloth.

Finally, you can try to Fabreeze it.

It may actually be worth a shot. See if you can find the original no-scent Fabreeze. Febreze Fabric Refresher Spray Extra Strength Scent | Febreze May damage plastic so only use on cloth parts. And keep all windows open/use a ventilator when spraying, let air out when done. Don't want to be breathing that stuff in full blast.

 

[Drunner97]

You'll probably need to get into the vents as well. Cigarette smoke leaves a residue on just about every surface and you can bet it's inside the ventilation, especially if the recirc button was pushed and air/heat was running while he was smoking. Try renting a carpet cleaner with the upholstery attachment. That should help get it out of the seats, carpet, and headliner.

Other than that? Time. I smoked for quite a few years in my Tacoma until I started commuting on a motorcycle. Over the last 5 years (and I quit 1 1/2 years ago) of not really smoking in it, and keeping it clean, the smell is all but gone.