Did You Know That Critters Hide Under Your Hood in Winter? (Cold Weather Critters)

Winter in [Your City/Region] brings more than just snow and ice. It also brings unwelcome guests – critters seeking warmth and shelter, and your car’s engine compartment might just be their ideal Airbnb! At AES, we’ve seen it all, from squirrels stockpiling nuts to mice building cozy nests under the hood. Learn how to protect your car and prevent critter chaos this winter.

Why Your Car is a Critter’s Winter Wonderland

Think about it from a critter’s perspective: it’s freezing outside, food is scarce, and finding a safe, warm place to sleep is paramount. Your car’s engine bay offers all three! The residual heat from a recently driven engine, combined with the enclosed space, creates a comfortable microclimate. Plus, the abundance of wiring, hoses, and insulation provides perfect nesting material.

Common Culprits: Who’s Hiding Under There?

• Mice: The most common offender. They’re small, agile, and can squeeze into the tiniest of spaces. They’re notorious for chewing on wires and building nests in air filters.
• Squirrels: These bushy-tailed bandits are adept at finding food and shelter. They might stash nuts and seeds under your hood for later, creating blockages and other problems.
• Rats: Larger than mice, rats can cause significant damage with their strong teeth. They’re less common than mice but pose a greater threat.
• Chipmunks: Similar to squirrels, chipmunks are adept at storing food for winter. Their smaller size allows them to access tight spots within your engine compartment.
• Even Cats! While less likely to cause damage, stray cats often seek warmth under the hood, sometimes getting stuck or causing accidental scratches.

The Damage Critters Can Cause

Critters aren’t just unwelcome guests; they can cause serious and costly damage to your vehicle. Here’s what’s at stake:

Wiring Damage

Critters, especially rodents, love to chew on wires. This can lead to electrical shorts, malfunctions, and even fires. Damaged wiring can affect everything from your headlights to your engine’s computer system.

Hose Damage

Similarly, hoses are vulnerable to critter teeth. A damaged hose can lead to coolant leaks, which can overheat your engine and cause severe damage.

Clogged Air Filters

Nests built in your air filter can restrict airflow to your engine, reducing performance and fuel efficiency. Dirty air filters can also lead to engine damage over time.

Mechanical Damage

Stored food, nesting materials, and even the critters themselves can interfere with moving parts, potentially causing mechanical damage.

Protecting Your Car: Prevention is Key

The best way to deal with critters under your hood is to prevent them from getting in there in the first place. Here are some proactive steps you can take:

Park in a Garage (If Possible)

A garage offers the best protection from the elements and curious critters. If you have a garage, use it!

Remove Food Sources

Don’t leave food or garbage near your car. Keep your yard clean and free of debris that could attract critters.

Use Critter Repellents

There are several commercially available critter repellents that can be effective. Look for products that are specifically designed to deter rodents and other pests. Mothballs are sometimes used, but be aware of their strong odor and potential health risks. Natural repellents like peppermint oil can also be effective when applied regularly.

Inspect Your Car Regularly

Take a few minutes to inspect your car’s engine compartment regularly, especially during the winter months. Look for signs of nesting, droppings, or chewed wires.

Consider an Ultrasonic Repeller

These devices emit high-frequency sound waves that are unpleasant to rodents and other pests. Place one under your hood to deter critters from entering.

What to Do If You Find Critters

If you suspect or discover that critters have taken up residence under your hood, don’t panic. Here’s what you should do:

Avoid Touching Anything Directly

Critters can carry diseases, so avoid touching anything directly. Wear gloves if you need to remove nesting materials.

Carefully Remove Nesting Materials

Remove any nests, food, or droppings you find. Dispose of them properly in a sealed bag.

Inspect for Damage

Carefully inspect your car’s wiring, hoses, and other components for damage. Look for chewed wires, leaks, or other signs of trouble.

Bring Your Car to AES for a Professional Inspection

Even if you don’t see any obvious damage, it’s a good idea to bring your car to AES for a professional inspection. Our experienced technicians can identify hidden damage and ensure that your car is safe to drive. We can also recommend preventive measures to keep critters away in the future.

Conclusion: Don’t Let Critters Ruin Your Winter!

Winter is a challenging time for both humans and animals. By taking a few simple precautions, you can protect your car from critter damage and avoid costly repairs. If you suspect that critters have been under your hood, don’t hesitate to contact AES for a professional inspection. We’re here to help you keep your car running smoothly all winter long!