How to Keep Mice, Rats and Other Rodents Out of Your Car Engine

You may have heard of people with bats in their belfry, but how about rats in their manifold, or mice in their motor? It is only a rumor that small autos are powered by hamsters running full speed on whirling exercise wheels, but rodent residency in engine compartments is not a myth. In fact, the damage done to vehicles by mice,rats, and their many cousins can be considerable. Gnawing wires, ripping out insulation for nesting materials, or squirreling away caches of nuts and other treasures in car and truck engines can wreak havoc on some of man's most sophisticated transportation technology and cause a significant financial pain. This is especially true if you live in a rural area. Not Just "Seldom Used" Cars Seldom used vehicles are not the only oneswhich inspire rodent occupation. Residents of rural areas sometimes find that furry critters are as excited as they are about brand new cars. In less than 24 hours they can destroy much of the wiring. The plastic insulating material that is now being used may be especially tasty-- like caviar to rodents. Wires that connect batteries or alternators or anything electric to anything else can be thoughly chewed, and lead to costly replacement After repairs are made, it can happen again unless steps are taken. Using a small electronic deterrent device which sends out rodent- disturbing signals warns tiny intruders to back off as long as is properly connected each time the car is parked. Other vehicle owners have had success by using, traps, baits, peppermint oil, fox urine powder or a combination of several methods.