Prevent a Pest Problem

Whether you’re talking about a house, apartment, or vehicle, a pest infestation is an absolute nightmare. Rodents are particularly destructive, as they have a tendency to chew anything that they come across. Everyone knows that they need to be on the lookout for mice and other rodents invading their homes, but many of us are unaware that rodents can also wreak considerable havoc on our automobiles.

Small rodents, like mice, have collapsable rib cages which allow them to fit through unbelievably small openings. Once inside a vehicle, mice look around for cozy hideouts and chew on wires, upholstery, hoses, and circuitry. If they end up dying inside your vehicle, your nose will alert you to the problem.

If proactive measures aren’t taken to prevent a rodent problem, you are more likely to experience rodent problems which will affect your vehicle’s performance and liveability. Keep reading to learn about preventing rodents from getting into your vehicle and how to deal with one that has managed to weasel its way in.

How Do They Get In?

Mice are instinctive burrowers. They love fitting themselves through tiny openings and are always on the look out for tight spaces in which they can hide. Unfortunately, our vehicles are full of mouse-sized holes such as vents, pedal shafts, space around the steering column, and of course open windows.

When to Be Most Vigilant

Many small rodents don’t hibernate. That means that as fall and winter approach, all those furry little creatures are looking for warm places to hunker down. What is a better warm shelter than a recently-driven engine bay? Mice are nocturnal, meaning they will be scurrying around when you are less likely to see them. From their perspective, we can understand the appeal of a warm engine bay or vehicle cabin.

Prevent Access

There are many ways to make your vehicle less attractive for mice. Here are the ones that we’ve found to be most effective and practical.

• Keeping your vehicle free of garbage, even non-food garbage, will make your vehicle less attractive to rodents. Mice like to build nests with anything they can find, so removing things like tissue and paper products is required.
• Mice are attracted to moist areas, because they get thirsty. Keeping your vehicle dry will help deter small critters.
• Clear dead leaves from around your vehicle. In the fall, rodents burrow in piles of leaves. If your vehicle is surrounded by piles of leaves, mice will find it easier and more compelling to access your vehicle.
• Open doors, windows, or sunroofs are an invitation for infestation. Keep these closed when you aren’t using the vehicle.
• If, despite following all previously mentioned tips, you are experiencing consistent trouble with mice, consider using a repellant. There are commercial products and various DIY options that successfully deter pests.

Dealing With an Infestation

Sometimes you do everything right and still find yourself dealing with the consequences of a furry invader. When preventative measures aren’t enough, you can purchase traps that are designed for automotive use. As soon as possible, you’ll want to get yourself a full automotive detail. A detail will remove any lingering smells, as well as all remaining fur and droppings.

CJ’s Autobling is Victoria’s go-to automotive detailing shop. Our methods are meticulous and cover every inch of your vehicle. No matter where that rodent was hiding out, we’ll be able to access and clean the area – get in touch here.