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Rats have a reputation for being voracious chewers, even causing havoc with wiring in homes.
They’re also partial to the wiring found in cars, with some suggesting they may be attracted to the plant-based material used for wiring insulation in newer vehicles.
Damage caused by rats and mice eating wiring insulation in vehicles is not uncommon. It can also be very expensive to repair to the point where some vehicles must be written off.
And the issue isn’t necessarily confined to rural areas - rodents are where people are, and there are many more people, cars and food in built-up areas.
Some signs that rats may have gnawed your wiring insulation include:
Poor engine starting and running
Other electrical issues
Visible areas of wiring insulation missing/chewed
Leaves and other nesting-related debris gathered under the bonnet or elsewhere in the vehicle
Offensive odour of urine/faeces
Visible rodent droppings
The single best way to prevent rats from nesting is to drive your vehicle regularly. Also avoid leaving food in and around your vehicle and, if possible, leave the area around it well-lit at night. It may also help to investigate deterrents such as sprays and sonic repellents.
