Mice invasions are not just a problem for your basement or attic. They shelter in a place where they feel safe. Your vehicle can be an attractive home for critters to seek shelter from predators or the weather. Their choice of shelter is not just a nuisance. When mice are under the hood they might build nests or chew belts or wires. The result can cause serious engine malfunctions and even car fires. A nest located in a fan or intake manifold can ignite. Wires that are frayed from chewing can also cause fires. But before we proceed with preventive measures, you must know what attracts mice inside your car.
Causes of mice infestations
- Leftover food – Leftover food, crumbs, and food containers are irresistible to pests and rodents. Avoid eating in your vehicle. If it is unavoidable, make sure to leave no trace behind.
- Nesting space – Mice look for a warm, safe space to breed and raise young. A vehicle is a perfect place to find soft, fluffy materials that mice use for nesting. It could be the seat stuffing, headliner, or trunk space.
- Hole or openings inside a car – Different vehicles will have different vulnerable entry points. Cable holes, pedal shafts, vents, sunroofs, and cracked windows are common entry points.
- Parking location – The area where you park should be clean and clear of clutter. Make sure there are no enticing sources of food nearby, such as pet food or bird feeders.
Steps to keep mice out of your vehicle
Preventive measures are fairly simple & straightforward.
- The first thing you need to do is to make your vehicle unappealing to mice. Make sure to keep your car clean and neat with a regular cleaning regimen. Pick up dropped food inside the vehicle, and clear out garbage and discarded food wrappers daily. Vacuum regularly to avoid the build-up of food scraps and scents.
- The area where you park should be kept up as well. Mice like to nest in areas with lots of hiding places, so trash, clutter, and thick foliage should be removed. Keeping your vehicle in a secure garage is very helpful. Mice prefer to sleep in darkness, so leave the light on in your garage. If you do not have a garage available, try to keep your vehicle parked in a well-lit area.
- Another option is to try and block points of entry. This can be difficult because mice are able to squeeze through tiny openings, many of which may not be accessible to you. Save this for if you know how the mice are getting in.
- Mice have a well-developed sense of smell that can be used against them with the use of strong scents. You can try various scents such as cedarwood, peppermint oil, or cayenne pepper to deter mice from coming too close. These oils need to be reapplied every few days.
Whether it’s a house or car, mice are a serious threat to your personal space. Are you looking for a professional solution? You can consult with a trusted pest control company, and let them take care of your pest control needs.