Rodents, including mice and rats, often seek shelter inside vehicles in Tennessee. This is especially true for the colder months when they are trying to escape from the harsh outside conditions. Once the temperature starts to drop, they invade vehicles and hide inside them. They chew on wiring, hoses, and insulation, leading to electrical failures and costly repairs.
The damage rodents cause can cost you a few thousand dollars, depending on the parts that need replacement. Furthermore, the presence of rodents in your vehicle is not just a mechanical issue; they also pose significant health risks. Rodents are known carriers of diseases, which may become airborne through contaminated air in the car’s HVAC system.
If you suspect that your vehicle is invaded by rodents, get pest control before it is too late!
Which rodents are commonly found in cars?
The most commonly found rodents in Tennessee in vehicles include the House Mice, Norway Rats, and Roof Rat. They invade vehicles when they seek shelter, warmth, and food.
Tennessee has witnessed a notable increase in the number of rodents, especially in Nashville. Due to this, the occurrence of rodents in vehicles has increased as well. Some dealerships report finding rodents in over a hundred vehicles within the same year.
Attraction factors– what is attracting rodents to your car?
In order to deter pests effectively and prevent them from invading your vehicle again, it is important to understand why they are drawn towards it in the first place. There are certain attraction factors that you should know about.
Nesting and shelter.
The number of reasons for rodents to invade your car is nesting and shelter. Your car offers them warmth and safety, a much-needed combination for survival. And they are especially drawn towards the engine compartment because it is warmer there. Apart from seeking warmth, they also damage your upholstery or insulation for nesting material.
Proximity to food sources.
The location where your vehicle is parked significantly increases or decreases the chances of a rodent invading it. For instance, if your car is parked near a dumpster, gardens, or bird feeders, rodents are more likely to enter. Furthermore, if you leave food or even food crumbs in the car, it creates a scent trail that is followed by these pests.
Therefore, make sure that you park your vehicle in the right space and do not keep food inside.
Attraction to wiring materials.
One unique attraction factor that people often overlook is the wiring material. Companies have started using soy-based wiring materials since 2008, which rodents find appealing to gnaw on or chew. The damage caused by this can potentially set you back a few thousand dollars. While the use of soy-based materials has environmental benefits, it also attracts rodents.
Signs that rodents have infested your vehicle
It is not difficult to determine whether a rodent is inside the vehicle. At first, when you enter your vehicle, you will find the presence of droppings or urine, often on the dashboard, floor mats, or seats. If you cannot see it, you will still be able to smell it.
Along with droppings, you will also find damaged upholstery and insulation, as rodents use these materials to create their nests. You may also find holes in your seats and chewed-up foam. If rodents have taken over your ventilation system, you may find odd smells originating from air vents.
Unusual sounds, such as scratching or rustling, are also a strong indication. You will most likely be able to hear them when your vehicle is parked and quiet outside. Lastly, electrical or mechanical failures may indicate that rodents have chewed up the wiring.
Protect your car from rodent damage!
If you have noticed any of the signs mentioned in the blog in your vehicle, you should take action before it is too late. Talk to a professional pest control service today!
Golden Circle Exterminators
8 Directors Row
Jackson, TN 38305
731-668-4887
