Rodents Look for Food and Shelter Under the Hood of Cars In Cold Weather

Rodents can make their way under the hood of a car to keep warm and the damage could cost car owners hundreds of dollars.

FREDERICK, Md. (KR)  AAA Mid-Atlantic is advising car owners to watch out for rodents snacking on wires and hiding out under the hood of your parked cars.

AAA says, mice, chipmunks and squirrels could be looking for a place to hibernate and find a warm home in your vehicle.

Ragina Cooper-Averella, with AAA, says drivers should not park a seldom-used car on the street or in a driveway where rodents can get in.

“What we’re looking at, manufacturing cars with fuel efficiency and environmentally friendly components, because of that, many of the wiring in our cars now are soy-based, so that also makes for a nice snack for many rodents who may not only be seeking shelter, but also food,” said Cooper-Averella.

She said there are ways for drivers to protect their cars from rodent infestation.

“While some people advocate using moth balls or pepper spray under the hood, fumes from these products are unhealthy for humans as well as the rodents. We suggest using cotton balls soaked in peppermint oil or more conventional measures such as mouse traps and ultrasonic repellent devices,” said Cooper-Averella.

She said damage from rodents could cost hundreds of dollars in repairs for the vehicle.

BY: Katie Ryan