The Unwanted Passenger: Handling a Mouse Living in Your Car

Have you noticed tiny droppings or chewed wires under the hood of your car? If so, you might be dealing with a furry stowaway. Mice are cunning creatures, and your car could become their home before you even notice. So, how do you handle this unexpected guest?

The Surprise Tenants: Why Mice Love Cars

Mice are attracted to the warmth and seclusion that a car offers. Add to this the food particles and paper for nesting, and your car turns into a desirable residence for these rodents. But worry not, knowing their presence is half the battle won. Here are some reasons why mice might choose your car as their home:

• Warmth: Mice don’t care for cold temperatures, so they need a warm place to live. Your car's engine provides the perfect source of heat, especially during the winter months.
• Seclusion: Mice are prey animals, so they prefer to live in secluded areas where they feel safe from predators. Your car's interior provides a perfect hiding place from both predators and humans.
• Food: Mice are omnivores, and they will eat just about anything. If you leave food in your car, it will attract mice. Even crumbs from a snack or a half-eaten piece of fruit can be enough to lure a mouse in.
  
  

Signs of a Four-Legged Freeloader

Although an industrious rodent can render your car inoperable, evidence of a mouse in your car might not always be obvious. You should keep an eye out for signs like:

• Chewed wires: Mice are notorious for chewing on wires. This can damage your car's electrical system and cause expensive repairs.
• Small droppings: Mouse droppings are small and dark brown. They are often found in corners, under seats, and in other hard-to-reach places.
• Nesting materials: Mice will often build nests in your car. These nests can be made from a variety of materials, such as paper, fabric, and even your own hair.
• Smells: Mice have a strong odor. If you notice a strange smell coming from your car, it could be a sign of a mouse infestation.
• Scurrying noises: Mice are nocturnal, so you might hear them scurrying around in your car at night. 

Risks: More than Just a Nuisance

It's not just the "ick" factor. A mouse infestation in your car can lead to serious problems. They can:

• Destroy wiring: This can cause expensive damage and even lead to a fire.
• Spread diseases: Mice can carry diseases, such as Hantavirus, that can be harmful to humans.
• Damage your car's interior: Mice will chew on anything they can get their teeth on, including your car's seats, carpets, and even the dashboard.
  Waving Goodbye: Getting Rid of the Mouse
  
  

Waving Goodbye: Getting Rid of the Mouse

The key to ousting these furry freeloaders is twofold: removing their access and cutting off their food supply. In case of a severe infestation, you might need professional pest control services, so an early jump on the problem could save you some money:

• Clean your car thoroughly. Remove all food and trash from your car. Vacuum up any droppings or nesting materials. Wipe down all surfaces with a disinfectant.
• Seal up any entry points. Mice can squeeze through very small openings. Check your car for any gaps or holes, and seal them up with caulk or weatherstripping.
• Use traps. Place mouse traps in areas where you have seen signs of mice. Be sure to check the traps regularly and dispose of any mice that are caught.
• Use repellents. There are a variety of mouse repellents available on the market. These repellents can be sprayed or placed in your car to deter mice.
• Avoid leaving your car unattended for long periods of time. If you must leave your car unattended for an extended period of time, consider storing it in a garage or other secure location.
• Call a pro. If you have a severe mouse infestation, you may need to call a professional pest control company.
  
  

Keep in mind: the best method to ensure a rodent-free car is prevention. With a clean, sealed car and no easily available food, you'll create an environment that's decidedly inhospitable to mice. If you follow these steps, you're more likely to keep your car mouse-free, ensuring your vehicle stays in the best possible condition for all your future journeys.

For Erie Insurance customers, animal-related damage to your car is covered under comprehensive coverage — including damage to your car from mice or rats. With this optional coverage, you’re only responsible for paying your deductible.

Let one of our knowledgeable agents help you make sense of insurance.