Total Reset Odor Eliminator Review – Does It Really Work?

Chemical Guys Total Reset claims to neutralize odors at the molecular level—but does it actually deliver results that last? We put it to the test and compared it to our go-to: Jimbo’s Complete Cabin Cleaner. Here’s what we found.

Total Reset Odor Eliminator Review – Does It Really Work?

Total Reset Odor Eliminator Review – Does It Really Work?

We tested Chemical Guys Total Reset Odor Eliminator to see if it really removes interior odors or just masks them with scent. Here's the honest truth—and a smarter alternative.

What Is Total Reset Odor Eliminator?

Total Reset by Chemical Guys is an odor eliminator spray designed to freshen up car interiors. It’s marketed as a “molecular-level” solution that neutralizes smells rather than covering them up. It also adds a synthetic citrus-like scent.

But does it actually eliminate odors—or just replace them with fragrance?

Our Testing Experience

We used Total Reset on a vehicle with light interior odors from food, gym gear, and sweat. Here’s what we noticed:

  • Initial scent was strong and refreshing—but artificial
  • Within 2–3 hours, the scent faded
  • The original odors weren’t completely gone—they were temporarily masked
  • On surfaces like headliner and carpet, it left behind a slight tackiness

The Problem with Most Odor Sprays

Products like Total Reset are often fragrance-heavy but cleaning-light. They don’t remove the *source* of the smell—they just cover it. And in most cases, the odors come back.

What Actually Works: Cleaning the Surface

If you want real, long-term odor elimination, you need to clean the materials causing the smell—seats, carpets, door panels, etc. That’s where Complete Cabin Cleaner comes in.

Why We Recommend Complete Cabin Cleaner Instead

  • Cleans AND deodorizes—no fake fragrance
  • Safe for all interior surfaces—leather, cloth, plastic, glass, screens
  • Matte, OEM-style finish—no residue or greasiness
  • Pairs perfectly with the Scrub Buddy Pad for deep cleaning

If the odor is coming from dirt, bacteria, or body oils trapped in the fabric or plastic, a product like Total Reset won’t solve it. You need to clean it.

Our Verdict

Total Reset smells good—for a little while. But it doesn’t actually clean. For long-term freshness and a true reset of your interior, Complete Cabin Cleaner is the real solution.

Bonus Tip:

Want a lasting citrus scent to go with your clean? Add Jimbo’s Air Freshies after cleaning. Unlike Total Reset, this combo cleans first—then leaves the perfect scent behind.


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