How to keep mice out of your vehicle?

At Littleton Chevrolet, we see a ton of animals and remnants within the compartment of your engine area.  It is important that you schedule for regular maintenance so your vehicle runs correctly along with having our team do visual inspections.  Mice especially around northern New Hampshire can wreak havoc on your vehicle by chewing wires and nesting in upholstery. Here are steps you can take to keep them out:

Eliminate temptations:

• Cleanliness: Keep your car clean and free of crumbs and trash. This removes potential food sources for mice. Vacuum your car regularly, paying attention to the seats, floor mats, and crevices. Wipe up any spills right away.
• No food storage: Don’t store food or drinks in your car for long periods, especially overnight. This includes candy, snacks, and even pet food.

Seal entry points:

• Park strategically: If possible, park your car in a garage or away from areas with high rodent activity, like near dumpsters or overgrown fields.
• Close gaps: Inspect the exterior of your car for any holes or gaps that mice could use to get in. These can be found around wires, vents, and the firewall. Seal them up with caulk or steel wool.

Deterr with scents and sound:

• Natural repellents: Place sachets of peppermint oil, cloves, or dryer sheets around your car. The strong smells can deter mice. Replace these every few weeks as the scent fades. There are also commercial rodent repellent packs available at hardware stores.
• Ultrasonic deterrents: These devices emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant to mice. The effectiveness of these varies, and some people find the noise irritating as well.

Extra steps:

• • Snap traps: If you suspect mice are already in your car, you can set snap traps. Be sure to check and empty the traps daily.
  • Move your car: If your car sits for long periods, try to start it up and move it every few days. This will disrupt any potential nesting activity.

If you think you are having an issue or your vehicle is not performing up to its capabilities, we encourage you to schedule an appointment today by calling 603.444.1999.