How to Get Rid of Rodents Making a Nest in Your Vehicle Engine
- 1). Put on work gloves before opening the hood and removing the nest. If you disturb a rodent, it may bite. Rodents can also transmit diseases through their urine and feces which may be present, even though such waste matter might not be seen by the naked eye. Vacuum up visible droppings and small pieces of nest material. Inspect the engine for damage, to be fixed either immediately or before you use the vehicle again.
- 2). Block potential rodent entrances into the vehicle with wire wool, which rodents cannot chew through. The exhaust pipe, for example, is just the right size to allow a mouse access, as are air vents.
- 3). Ensure there is no gap between the door and the ground of your garage to keep rodents out. Fit a tough door sweep if there is any gap. Seal all cracks and gaps with cement, caulk or plaster. Sheet metal blocks larger holes. Remember that the smallest rodents can squeeze through gaps of no more than 1/4 inch, while small rats only need a 1/2-inch gap.
- 4). Position live traps or snap traps along walls and in sheltered spots near the vehicle to catch any rodents remaining in the garage. Snap traps are a fast and relatively humane option for common house mice and rats. If you suspect the rodents are an unusual or rare species, or you don’t like killing rodents, use live traps and release the animals elsewhere. If you’ve sealed the entrances, they can’t get back into the garage. Check all traps at least once a day.
- 5). Soak cotton balls in peppermint oil and distribute around and on the vehicle. Rodents find the scent of mint repulsive. Freshen the balls with more oil once a month, because the scent wears off over time.
- 6). Visit your garage once a day. If you have a carnivore pet, such as a dog or ferret, bring it with you. One of the reasons little-used vehicles appeal to rodents is the lack of disturbance and predators. Daily inspections also allow you to see if the rodents have returned or any new gaps have developed.
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