6 Signs Your Vehicle Has a Rodent Problem
And what to do about it.
While 2021 may be the year of the Ox, spring in Virginia will always be the season of the rodent. With easy to access nooks and crannies to bed in, mice find vehicles irresistible to build their homes. If you suspect a rodent might have moved into your vehicle, you’ll want to find out for sure with an inspection and get rid of them before they decide to have your wiring as a snack.
*All Images in this Post are from Spring/Summer 2021 in Fauquier County VA.
6 Ways to Tell if Your Vehicle has a Rodent Problem
- Vibrations from the Air Vents.
If you turn on your air systems (including heating, air conditioning or defrosters) and hear a vibration or a rumbling noise debris has most likely gotten caught in the fan. This is a good first indicator that you may have a rodent issue.
- An Ammonia-like Odor.
Along with debris, mice leave behind a considerable amount of waste. Over time this smell will become very apparent, especially when turning on your air vents. If you’ve been using an air freshener clip, make sure you aren’t covering up an issue that will soon become more than just an unpleasant smell.
3. Debris coming through the vents.
If you turn on your air systems (including heating, air conditioning or defrosters) and hear a vibration or a rumbling noise debris has most likely gotten caught in the fan. This is a good first indicator that you may have a rodent issue.
4. Hidden piles of food.
When you clean out your vehicle, if you notice hidden piles of food stored away especially in piles under car seats, up under your dash or in the trunk, a mouse will almost always be the culprit. Or it could be your children hiding the parts of the trail mix they don’t like.
5. Finding things chewed up.
Mice use anything and everything to build their nests; from seat cushions to air filters. If you’re finding shredded evidence, especially holes in your air filters, this is a definite sign that you may have a mouse problem.
6. Wiring Issues.
If you notice your dash lights aren’t working, your vehicle interior lights aren’t coming on or simple things begin malfunctioning along with any signs above, mean mice may be snacking on your wires. Get your vehicle in for a complete inspection quickly before more damage occurs.
Does Vehicle Insurance Cover Rodent Damage?
The BIG question: Is rodent damage covered by auto insurance? The answer may come as a surprise, but almost all vehicle comprehensive insurance covers animal damage. When we think of comprehensive covering animal damage, we typically picture deer collisions. But rodents can cause major issues including destroying wiring and ruining upholstery. If you notice any of the signs above, don’t wait.
Aren’t positive the damage will be covered by your insurance? Read through your comprehensive policy or discuss the issue with them directly. Here at Global Automotive, we work with your insurance company as well to make sure you get the coverage you’re entitled to with every covered service.
Other Tips for Fauquier Drivers:
If your Check Engine light is on and you don’t see any signs of a rodent problem, check out our expert tips with Troubleshooting your Check Engine Light. Our experts can also take a look during your next oil change or your Virginia State Inspection service. And if you were only checking out other Fauquier residents uninvited guest photos, take a glance at 12 Tips to Improve Your Gas Milage while you’re here.
Wherever you’re going, be safe and drive happy.
Global Automotive experts are ready to diagnose and repair any issue your vehicle may have. We’ll get you back on the road safely. Call to schedule your appointment today and see why we’ve been trusted as Fauquier’s Auto shop for over 25 years.
