How To Hold Rodents Out Of Your Automotive

As a car owner, you will encounter standard problems from time to time. Flat tires, defective thermostats or squeaky brakes are nothing out of the ordinary.

But some problems border on the unbelievable and make them extremely difficult to overcome. Among these, a severe rodent infestation undoubtedly takes the first place.

In this article we will try to advise you on this issue. We explain why rodents get into cars, what damage they do, give telltale signs of their presence and identify ways to protect your vehicle and finally solve the problem.

Why do rodents come in?

Your car can attract rats or mice to nest, forage, and hide from predators. But despite these main reasons, there are other factors that contribute.

The engine compartment can be a great place for rodents to warm up in winter. The critters will actively use all the material to build nests, which will further protect them from the cold.

Smell also plays a crucial role here. You can pick up uninvited passengers if you park near dumpsters, yards, bird feeders, chicken coops, or other food sources for rodents. If you leave any groceries in the cabin, they will leave an odor trail to follow.

There is also a rare “problem” with vehicles produced in 2008. During this time, many manufacturers used bioplastics to save money and protect the environment. However, one of the materials used for the wiring was a soy derivative, making your car a hotspot for rodents.

What harm can they do?

Rodents can cause cosmetic and mechanical damage to your vehicle, and your health can also be at risk as rodents are notorious carriers of disease. They can transmit diseases like hantavirus, salmonella, leptospirosis, and more.

The vehicle’s air filter is one of their favorite places to nest. If there are rodents in this area, turning on the air conditioner will push all their feces and other inconveniences straight into the cabin, provoking allergic reactions and possibly even transmitting diseases.

Fractures range from non-serious to life-threatening. Her radio failed to work again. Your engine could stall and you would have to take your car to the nearest dealership. If your brakes or power steering fail, you and all occupants are in imminent danger.

Telltale signs of rodent presence

While their presence can go relatively unnoticed, you can look for a few signs. For example, you may notice a very unpleasant odor, hear scratching or chewing, or see chewing marks or marks on the floor mat, seat belt, or other places. Alternatively, any malfunction you experience can be attributed to the rodent’s naughty behavior.

They usually settle in air vents, trunks, dashboards, air filters, under seats or near car batteries. These areas are attractive to them for many reasons. Rodents can get into the car through various inlets and it is crucial to take all necessary precautions.

Ways to prevent an infestation

Try to park away from trash cans and natural food sources. Use sealed garages to store your vehicle and keep your doors locked. Look for gaps in your vehicle and try to seal them. Weatherstrips can be attached to the underside of vehicle doors.

Finally, try to move your car regularly to discourage pests from settling in your vehicle and honk your horn before driving to scare away sleeping animals.

Get rid of the rodents

While it’s much easier not to “invite” them, there are ways to deal with this awkward problem. You can do different things depending on your preferences.

There are special spray products that you can use to deter rodents. Peppermint oil and cayenne pepper can also help repel animals. However, you must apply them daily as they tend to wear off. Then there are ultrasonic devices that emit sounds that disturb the rodents. They operate at a frequency that humans cannot hear.

If they decide to nest in the trunk, you could use mothballs and scare them away with the stinky smell (avoid using inside). Placing classic rodent traps in the garage could also reduce their population.

summary

With these methods, you should be able to take care of most minor rodent infestations in your vehicle. If any of the above tactics prove unsuccessful, we recommend contacting pest control services to finish the job.