Preventing Mice & Other Rodents From Accessing Your Car
Mice and other rodents love to get into cars because they are warm and have lots of nooks and crannies to explore and hide in, the bonus for them is all the hoses and wiring they get to chew on to sharpen their teeth causing lots of damage. Every year, rats and mice cause thousands and thousands of dollars in damages to cars and trucks and keeping rodents out of your car can be a challenge, but with some preventive measures, you can reduce the chances of them infesting your vehicle. Here are some tips to help you keep mice away from your car:
1. Park in a Garage: If possible, park your car in a garage when not in use. This is the most effective way to keep mice and other pests away from your vehicle.
2. Seal Entry Points: Inspect your car for any openings or gaps that mice could use to get inside. Seal off any holes, cracks, or openings in the car's exterior using weather stripping, sealant, or mesh.
3. Keep the Area Clean: Avoid leaving food scraps or trash in or around your car. Mice are attracted to food sources, and even small crumbs can be enough to entice them.
4. Remove Debris: Regularly clean the area around your car, removing leaves, twigs, and other debris. These can create hiding spots for mice and provide nesting material.
5. Use Repellents: There are various natural or commercial repellents available that can deter mice. For example, peppermint oil is known to be a natural mouse deterrent. Soak cotton balls in peppermint oil and place them inside the car, particularly in areas where mice might nest. You can also fill a small spray bottle with peppermint oil and cayenne pepper and spray the interior and engine compartments.
6. Mothballs: Some people use mothballs to keep mice away. However, be cautious with these, as they can be toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Place them in secure containers and keep them away from areas where they could be accessed by children or pets. You can also put them in mesh bags and place in the engine compartment when storing your vehicle but you will need to remember to remove them before you resume daily driving.
7. Traps: Consider placing mousetraps near the car, especially if you suspect mice are already present. This can help you catch them before they find their way into the car.
8. Ultrasonic Devices: There are electronic devices that emit ultrasonic sounds that are supposed to repel rodents. While their effectiveness is debated, some people find them helpful.
9. Regular Use: Using your car regularly can help prevent mice from nesting inside. Frequent engine start-ups and movement can make the car less inviting for them.
10. Elevate the Car: If possible, park your car on a platform or jack stands to lift it off the ground slightly. This makes it harder for mice to climb into the car.
10. Honk your horn: When you start your car, a short honk will likely scare mice away as they don't like loud noises.
Remember that prevention is key, and it's easier to keep mice out than to deal with an infestation. By implementing these measures, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of mice making your car their home.
