Animal-induced breakdowns in vehicles have surged to unprecedented levels, largely attributed to the intrusion of creatures, particularly rats, causing mischief inside. The RAC responded to 303 instances of animal-related damage in the initial 11 months of 2023, marking a significant increase of 55% from the 196 incidents recorded between January and November in 2018. These statistics exclude cases where a vehicle collided with an animal.
Rats accounted for over half of the animal-related damage this year, commonly found gnawing through fuel hoses, infiltrating engine compartments, and damaging headlights. Foxes were also culprits, known for nibbling speed sensor wiring, windshield wipers, and brake hoses.
RAC patrol officer Nick Isaac shared an unusual encounter in southwest England involving a squirrel that had been using a car’s air filter to hoard nuts, causing a loss of power and an unusual odor in the vehicle. Instances like this underscore the warning that rodents might be drawn to vehicles containing food or those left idle for extended periods.
Other peculiar incidents included the discovery of ten mice nesting in a Porsche and an intervention to retrieve a baby pet python that sought warmth behind a wheel trim, attracted by the car’s heated brakes.
RAC spokesperson Alice Simpson emphasised that encountering rodents in a vehicle is not only startling but can lead to costly damages. She advised drivers, especially during colder months, to inspect their vehicles if left unused for a week or more, remove any food items, and remain vigilant for unusual smells or persistent dashboard warning lights.
While car insurance typically covers animal-related damages, Simpson advised assessing the extent of the damage before filing a claim to ensure it justifies the expense.
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