Remove all trash, ash, and cigarette butts
Vacuum seats, carpets, floor mats, trunk, and crevices
Wash or replace cabin air filter
Clean hard surfaces with an interior cleaner
Shampoo upholstery, carpets, and floor mats
Use an odor-neutralizing spray on fabrics
Sprinkle baking soda on carpets and seats, then vacuum it off
Place activated charcoal or odor absorbers inside the car
Run the HVAC system on fresh air with the fan on high
Clean the air vents and replace vent filters if applicable
Steam clean fabric and carpeted areas
Wipe down windows, headliner, and door panels
Leave the car in fresh air with windows open when possible
Use an ozone treatment if the odor remains
Repeat cleaning steps as needed until the smell is gone