How to Keep Squirrels Out of Car Engines
Squirrels are curious creatures that love to explore. Unfortunately, this can sometimes lead them into dangerous situations, such as into car engines. If a squirrel gets into your car engine, it can cause serious damage and even start a fire.
There are a few things you can do to keep squirrels out of your car engine:
1. Keep your car clean.
Squirrels are attracted to food and debris, so keeping your car clean will help to deter them from entering your engine. Be sure to clean up any food spills or crumbs, and vacuum your car regularly to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Seal up any holes or cracks.
Squirrels can squeeze through even the smallest of holes or cracks, so it’s important to seal up any openings in your car’s exterior. Check around the hood, fenders, and undercarriage for any gaps or holes, and seal them up with caulk or expanding foam.
3. Use a squirrel repellent.
There are a number of commercial squirrel repellents available on the market. These repellents typically contain ingredients that squirrels find unappealing, such as peppermint oil or capsaicin. Apply the repellent around the perimeter of your car, and reapply it every few weeks to keep it effective.
4. Make your car unappealing to squirrels.
Squirrels are attracted to warm, dark places, so you can make your car less appealing to them by making it less comfortable. Park your car in a well-lit area, and leave the windows and doors open slightly to air it out. You can also place a few mothballs in the engine compartment to deter squirrels.
5. Trap and release squirrels.
If you have a squirrel problem, you can trap and release them. This is a humane way to remove squirrels from your property without harming them. There are a number of different types of squirrel traps available, so be sure to choose one that is appropriate for the size of the squirrels in your area.
What to do if a squirrel gets into your car engine.
If a squirrel gets into your car engine, it’s important to remain calm and take the following steps:
* **Stop the car and turn off the engine.**
* **Open the hood and look for the squirrel.**
* **If the squirrel is still in the engine, use a broom or stick to gently coax it out.**
* **Once the squirrel is out of the engine, close the hood and start the car.**
* **Check for any damage to the engine and repair it as necessary.**
If you are unable to remove the squirrel from the engine yourself, you should call a mechanic for assistance.
By following these tips, you can help to keep squirrels out of your car engine and avoid the potential for damage or fire.
