OK, I've got some type of rodent that seems to be hanging out in my engine and chewing stuff up. I've got comprehensive - what I really want to know is wat to prevent. Yes - I'm pretty steamed and depressed at the same time. Does anybody have any solutions? How do you determine if it is living the car? Could it be living in the airbox?

Jay


Modified by reaquino at 9:33 PM 3/12/2006

 

Most times it's tiny woodland creatures (mice) who chew on the hoods insulating blanket. They take this material and make nests, right inside the warm engine compartment.
Most times they'll choose crevasses and cubbies behind the inner fender wells.
In extreme cases, they find their way into the heater case to make their nests. This will become apparent either if one of the little "H'osers" gets caught in the electric exercise wheel (blower cage) and starts making a rhythmic thumping noise, the volume of air output starts decreasing from the heater or one day you find yourself confronted by a indescribable smell of "What the F..K is THAT??"

It's time to give the under-hood a good going over. Pay particular attention to the air cleaner case. They can find their way into anything.

You can try mothballs (those from male moths only) household ammonia or you can revert to marking your territory.

P

 

Do they leave the car to eat? If so how they get in and out of the car?

Jay

 

In and out thru the bottom of the Engine bay. You may have a splash shield under there, but it isn't totally sealed (it won't float ....). You also have to remember, they will squeeze themselves into the most amazing places.
Your project will become on of discouraging them from occupying your engine compartment, either by making it smell like something they hate, trap them or tie the family cat underneath the hood at night.
Just remember he's under there in the morning (b4 you start)

P