Just like you, when the temperature drops, rodents seek food and warmth! It’s not uncommon for them to move right into your home or car for that matter. Rodents don’t need a key to get into your car, as sneaking into cars is rather easy for rodents. Did you know mice and rats can fit through holes as small as a dime and a quarter? Openings on your car such as vents, steering columns, pedal shafts, and other openings serve as the main access into vehicles for rodents. Not to mention, rodents have a field day on today’s eco-friendly materials like soy-based wiring. Once these intruders get into your vehicle, they commonly use insulation as nesting material and wires as meals leading to electrical issues, short circuits, and even the spread of diseases.
In addition to costly repairs, these creatures can spread disease-causing health problems for you and whoever else catches a ride with you! To avoid this, we have listed some prevention tips:
- Be sure to always close all doors and windows on your car, even if you’re running back inside really quickly because you forgot something. This includes the sunroof too.
- Seal up points of entry into garages using a silicone-based caulk, steel wool, or a combination of both.
- Check under the car hood for gnawed materials, droppings, nests, and frayed wires.
- If you do find any of these, contact us immediately.
- Maintain a clean car by promptly wiping up spills, and disposing of paper, fast food bags, and other trash daily.
- Don’t allow moisture to build up inside your vehicle. Rodents thrive on water and are very attracted to moisture. Moisture can result from several things. It can be caused by a leak in the heater or a blocked pollen filter. Even damp clothing can cause moisture buildup.
- Clean out autumn leaves from under your hood. These give rodents a place for shelter from the rain. Check out this blog post to read about more benefits of cleaning out under your hood.
- Spray rodent repellent around the lower part of your car and wheel wells. Peppermint oil spray works well too.
- Play music when you get in the car. Rodents do not like noise.
When it comes to car issues, there are countless possible causes. However, people might be surprised to learn that a rodent infestation could be what’s causing problems with their vehicle. Luke’s Auto Service in Verona, New Jersey cautions drivers to be on the lookout for a rodent problem this upcoming fall and take the necessary steps to prevent it from happening to them! Don’t forget! October is fall car care month. Be sure to check out these 8 Maintenance Procedures to Get Your Car Ready for Winter.
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