Winter is a good time to remind customers about how to keep rodents out of their cars, especially those that aren’t used very often.
Rodent damage to cars may not be common, but it’s not unheard of either. The problem is that rodent damage to cars, especially car electrics, can be very expensive to fix and is generally not covered by car or home insurance. But the impacts of rodent damage to cars are not simply the direct damage – there is a risk of fire when the car is started either through damaged electrics and/or nesting material catching fire. There is also a risk of infection from rodent-related particles being blown through the air conditioning system.
Whilst the risk of rodents nesting in vehicles increases with vehicles left unused for extended periods, rodents can move in and cause damage overnight. It is therefore worth highlighting rodent proofing actions to customers with vehicles at potential risk of rodent damage.
A key first step is to make sure the vehicle is parked indoors (it cannot be protected outdoors) and the garage has a well-fitted door with robust weather strip. Other standard rodent-proofing options should be taken to seal any other rodent entry points. As required, suitable baiting or trapping options should also be considered. Much like rodent proofing for homes, hygiene is important – make sure vehicles are kept clean with no food lying around. Regularly inspect all vehicles, especially those which are infrequently used. For infrequently used vehicles, regularly starting the engine and taking the vehicle for a short drive is a good idea too.
