Mice in C30 ventilation

[Alwyn]

My fan has been making a buffeting noise. After serious vibration I stopped the car and lifted the bonnet. I don't know which of us was the most surprised me or the mouse running about on the engine cover.

I turned the fan right down and continued my journey without mishap.

The only evidence previously had been conkers from a nearby horse chestnut tree in the engine compartment. I took the car to my local garage. The usually obliging mechanic was also confronted by the mouse. He suggested that I 'deal with the mouse/mice' before bringing it back. I don't believe there are any live mice left but, judging by the smell when the heater fan is turned up, there may well be dead ones.

It seems that the only way mice could get into the ventilation system is through the heater motor louvres. Some wag suggested that Volvo built the car round the heater motor making its removal extremely difficult. Even removing the pollen filter is tricky.

Any suggestions gratefully received.

[Alwyn]

Once the aircon had been cleared out it worked okay last summer but this spring the aircon was blowing uncooled air. It was recharged and sealed. Although the compressor comes on when it is turned to cool no cold air is coming in and the mechanic informs me that there must still be coolant in the system, otherwise the compressor would not have turned on. After a while a smell percolates through, although more 'enginey' than mousey.

Any thoughts on what the problem could be?

[Simmy]

change the pollen filter its awkward but not impossible allow an hour if you have not done one before. there is some u tube vids on the procedure

[Alwyn]

Apologies for the late reply. The pollen filter was changed in October so it seems unlikely that that is the problem but fumes are in the air being blown in.