Originally Posted by jackei
Just shut off the A/C and fan about 5 minutes before switching off the car. (hopefully it is not too hot outside) and you won't get the bad smell again next time when you start the A/C. I don't know why, but it worked on my Ford, and my friend's Lexus.
There is one IMPORTANT correction to these steps. You need to turn OFF the AC compressor(middle button), but leave the FAN running until the car is turned off. This will help dry out the evaporator core and prevent mold and mildew from growing. Their waste products is what we smell.