Rodents chew wiring insulation, which causes short circuits, lights and sensors that fail at random and sometimes fires. Cars parked near fields, orchards or open lots around Kern County are at risk.
Key takeaways
- Look for nests and droppings.
- Faults can be intermittent.
- Repair the wire, not just the symptom.
Why they chew
Some wire insulation has soy-based material that attracts rodents, and engine bays are warm shelters.
Signs
Multiple unrelated warning lights, a car that will not start, droppings or nesting material.
Tracing damage
A technician follows the harness, inspects connectors and tests circuits.
Repair
Damaged wires are spliced and protected or the harness section is replaced.
Prevention
Park away from brush, keep the engine bay clean and use deterrents.
Why rodents choose cars
Engine bays are warm in the evening, sheltered from predators and often near food sources such as orchards and fields. Rodents also chew insulation to wear down their teeth. Cars that sit for long periods are more at risk. Signs include droppings, shredded insulation on the air filter box and chewed hoses as well as wires.
After the repair
Repairing chewed wires is only half the job. Remove nests, clean the engine bay and consider deterrents such as peppermint-based sprays or ultrasonic devices, which have mixed evidence. Parking away from brush and in a garage helps most. Check your comprehensive coverage, because rodent damage is sometimes covered. Keep photographs of the damage before repair in case you file a claim.
Need help in south Bakersfield?
Questions about auto electrical repair? Read our Auto Electrical Repair page, call (661) 599-9098 or request a time. Peña's Auto Electric, Smog & Repair, 303 Taft Hwy, Suite B, Bakersfield, CA 93307. Mon to Fri 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Sat 8 AM to 1 PM.
Frequently asked questions
Does insurance cover rodent damage?
Comprehensive coverage may. Check your policy.
Can I fix it myself?
Wire repair needs care.
How do I prevent it?
Park away from brush and use deterrents.
Are the faults random?
Often intermittent.