Rodents have been a nuisance for ages, sneaking into small spots, hiding in shadows, and causing damage to property and health!

For car owners, the unwelcome presence of rodents can lead to one of the most perplexing problems imaginable – rats chewing car wiring. It's a truly gnawing issue with potentially expensive and dangerous consequences for your vehicle.

Why Do Rats Chew Car Wires?

Before we delve into how to stop rats from chewing car wires, it's important to understand why they do it in the first place:

• It's in Their Nature: Rodents have an instinct to gnaw and chew. This helps them explore their environment, maintain dental health, and sometimes even relieve stress.

• Conveniently Located: Car wires are often easily accessible and provide a tempting texture for a rodent to sink its teeth into.

• Warmth and Shelter: An unused car offers a cozy, dark spot, especially in cold weather.

While it's nice for them to have a dental workout, it's undoubtedly frustrating for car owners.

Car Damage Caused by Rats Goes Beyond Wires

Rodents chewing on car wires is a common and costly problem, especially in urban areas or where cars aren't used daily – even a few days of inactivity can be inviting to any nearby rat.

But damage by rodents doesn't always end there. They're always looking for materials to build their nests, which your car is full of! Some of the most common types of damage caused by rats in vehicles include:

• Wire Damage: As mentioned earlier, rats tend to gnaw on wires, especially when the car is not in use. This behavior can lead to non-functioning headlights, brake lights, or even engine failure.

• Interior Damage: Rats seeking shelter in your car can also chew on the interior components such as seat padding, insulation, and even upholstery.

• Air Filter Damage: Another common target for rats is the car's air filter. Chewing through this can cause debris and contaminants to enter your engine, leading to costly repairs – and a broken AC!

• Hose or Belt Damage: If rats chew through your car's rubber hoses or belts, it can lead to leaks and ultimately cause engine damage.

Not only does this affect your car's functionality, but it can also pose a serious health concern. Rats are known carriers of diseases, and their droppings can contaminate the air inside your vehicle.

How to Keep Rodents Out of Your Car

If you've noticed rats already present in your car or around where you store your car, the first step is to have a professional pest control service remove them. Then, focus on preventing future infestations by following these tips:

• Regularly Drive Your Car: If rats don't detect any activity around your car for a long time, they'll see it as an invitation to make themselves at home. Even if you're not using your car frequently, try to take it out for a spin at least once a week.

• Keep Your Car Clean: Clean up any crumbs or food debris from your car, as this can attract rats. Also, keep the interior and exterior of your car clutter-free to prevent them from building nests.

• Avoid Parking Near Bushes and Vegetation: Rats live in these areas and can easily enter your car. Try to park in a well-lit, open area if possible.

• Use Natural Repellents: Various natural repellents, such as peppermint, eucalyptus, citronella, and lavender, have been known to keep rats away. Use these essential oils around your car or in areas where they may enter.

• Seal Entry Points: While every car has small openings for ventilation, sealing larger holes or gaps can make a difference. Steel wool or metal mesh can be used to cover these areas.

Set up a regular monitoring routine where you check for any signs of rodent activity. Early detection can save you a lot of trouble down the line!

What to Do if a Rat Has Damaged Car Wires?

But what about if the damage has already been done? If you suspect that a rat has chewed on your car wires, it's important to have a professional mechanic inspect and repair the damage. They will also be able to advise you on any necessary steps to prevent future incidents.

Don't attempt to fix the wires yourself, as this can be dangerous and, in some cases, even void your car's warranty. Always leave it to the experts!

Don't Let Rodents Get the Best of Your Car

Rats may be small, but they can cause big problems when chewing on car wires. By understanding why they do it and taking necessary preventive measures, you can help keep your car safe and avoid costly repairs.

If you suspect any damage has already been done, don't hesitate to seek professional help from the team at Christian Brothers Automotive to get your car up and running smoothly once again. While we may not be able to get rid of rodents living in your car, we can certainly help you resolve the electrical system issues they cause.

If you need help repairing chewed wires or other car damage caused by rats, contact your local Christian Brothers Automotive location to book an appointment today!