As winter weather grips the region, rodents are actively seeking refuge from the cold — and that includes in ways most drivers might never expect. According to pest management experts, cars and trucks offer warmth and shelter during freezing conditions, making them attractive targets for mice, rats, and other small mammals that are hard-wired to avoid the elements and evade predators.
Rodents have a biological need to maintain body heat and stay protected from ice, snow, and wind. This survival instinct drives them to seek out environments that trap heat and provide safe, enclosed spaces — such as parked vehicles with recently operated engines or garages.
These areas are often undisturbed for hours, allowing rodents time to slip inside through tiny openings. A mouse can enter through a hole as small as a dime, and once inside a vehicle’s engine bay or interior, can cause serious damage while establishing a nest.
“During the colder months, we see a significant uptick in calls from motorists who discover rodents under the hood or inside their cars,” said William T. Hoffman, President & CEO of Hoffman’s Exterminators. “Rodents aren’t just looking for warmth; they also look for food sources and nesting materials. Once they find a comfortable space, they’ll chew, gnaw, and build nests that can lead to costly repairs and safety hazards.”
Why Vehicles Are Attractive to Rodents
There are several reasons rodents are drawn to cars during cold weather:
- Warmth: A vehicle recently driven retains significant heat in the engine compartment, making it an inviting environment for warmth-seeking rodents.
- Shelter: Engine bays and other hidden compartments provide protection from predators and the harsh winter elements.
- Food and Nesting Materials: Crumbs, insulation, upholstery, and paper products left inside or near a car can entice rodents to stay and nest.
Once rodents are inside, they instinctively chew on materials like wiring insulation, hoses, and structural components. Modern vehicles often use soy-based or biodegradable wiring insulation, which can unfortunately be especially appealing to rodents. Damage to wires alone can trigger dashboard warnings, electrical failures, or even render a vehicle inoperable.
Signs of Rodent Infestation in Your Vehicle
Motorists should be vigilant for early signs of rodent activity, including:
- Unexplained warning lights or electrical issues
- Odd noises under the hood
- Chewed wires, hoses, or insulation
- Droppings or nesting materials in engine compartments or interior spaces
- Foul or unusual odors coming from vents or under the hood
Rodent damage can escalate quickly and lead to costly repairs if left unchecked. In some cases, nests built near hot engine components can even pose fire risks.
Preventing Rodent Damage This Winter
Experts recommend a combination of preventative steps for motorists:
- Keep vehicles clean and free of food wrappers and trash
- Park in enclosed, rodent-protected garages when possible
- Periodically start and run vehicles to reduce the appeal of a stationary heat source
- Seal gaps in garages and storage areas to reduce rodent access
Despite best efforts, rodents can be persistent. When infestations occur or preventative measures aren’t enough, professional pest control services can help assess and address the situation effectively.
About Hoffman’s Exterminators
With decades of experience serving residential and commercial customers, Hoffman’s Exterminators is a trusted pest control provider throughout South Jersey, the greater Philadelphia area, and Delaware. Our team understands the unique pest pressures of the region — including seasonal rodent incursions — and offers tailored solutions to protect homes, vehicles, and businesses.
If you’re dealing with rodents in your garage, car, or commercial property this winter, don’t wait until minor damage becomes a major problem. Reach out to Hoffman’s Exterminators for expert pest control solutions in South Jersey, greater Philadelphia, and Delaware — and reclaim your space from unwanted winter invaders.
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