What is Odor Testing?
Odor testing involves the sensory evaluation of the odor behavior of automotive interior materials. Unpleasant odors from plastics, adhesives, and textiles can significantly impair customer satisfaction.
Test Method
Samples are stored in a sealed glass vessel at a defined temperature (typically 80 °C) for 2 hours. A trained panel of testers then evaluates the odor.
Evaluation Scale (VDA 270):
• Grade 1: imperceptible
• Grade 2: perceptible, not disturbing
• Grade 3: clearly perceptible, but not yet unpleasant
• Grade 4: disturbing
• Grade 5: strongly disturbing
• Grade 6: unbearable
Most OEMs require a grade of ≤ 3.
Odor Testing According to OEM Standards
The following table shows all OEM-specific standards for odor testing covered by the ASO Laboratory:
| Manufacturer | Standard | Description |
|---|---|---|
| BMW Group | BO 131-01 | Odor |
| BMW Group | BO 131-03 | Odor |
| General Motors Europe | GME 60276 | Odor |
| General Motors Worldwide | GMW 3205 | Odor Testing According to Standard |
| Jaguar Land Rover | TPJLR.52.458 | Odor |
| Mercedes-Benz AG | DBL 1000 | Emission and Odor in the Interior |
| Mercedes-Benz AG | DBL 5430 | Emission and Odor in the Interior |
| SAE International | SAE J1351 | Odor |
| German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) | VDA 270 | Determination of Odor Behavior |
| Volkswagen Group (VW/Audi/Porsche/SEAT/Škoda) | PV 3900 | Odor Testing According to Standard |
| Volvo Car Corporation | VCS 1027,2729 | Odor |
| Volvo/Scania | STD 429-0001 | Odor |
Frequently Asked Questions about Odor Testing
How is odor evaluated?
By a trained panel of testers (at least 3 people) using a grade scale from 1 (odorless) to 6 (unbearable). Samples are conditioned at 80 °C in sealed vessels and evaluated immediately after opening.
Which limit values apply?
Most automotive manufacturers require a grade of ≤ 3 (clearly perceptible, but not unpleasant). For premium vehicles and new car deliveries, stricter requirements (grade ≤ 2) are sometimes applied.
Can odor also be measured instrumentally?
Yes, in addition to sensory evaluation, VOC analyses are often performed by GC-MS (e.g., VDA 278). These identify the odor-causing substances and their concentration but do not replace sensory evaluation.
Your Odor Testing at the ASO Laboratory
The ASO Laboratory conducts odor testing according to all common OEM standards. Our DAkkS accreditation according to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025 guarantees standard-compliant results.
Contact us for a quote – we will advise you on optimal sample planning and testing scope.