hard-case

I haven't been able to figure this one out for the life of me, so I hoped the collective brain trust here might be able to shed light on this one.

About two months ago, I noticed that every time I used the wiper fluid spray on my car, I would get that ammonia-like smell of the fluid in the cabin. Didn't think too much about it as it was never very prevalent, until I used the wipers when I had the vents going full blast. The smell was so overpowering that I nearly had to pull over and toss my lunch all over the pavement. Thankfully it dissipated quickly, but it makes driving a tad...difficult. I was hoping maybe someone might have either encountered this before, or might have some ideas as to what might be the cause before I lose $100+ to the techs rooting around for the issue.
Many thanks!

SD CALSPCL

Just a quick thought....the smell may be coming in from the outside vents, rather then a leak in the system. The incoming air may be picking up the odor and carrying it into the car.

Since it dissipates quickly, after washer use, it would appear there is no liquid leaking into the car and remaining in the HVAC system or I think you would have the smell all the time.

manystangs

Maybe the cowling on the right side, where the cabin filter is, has developed a leak