Motorists warned against rat infestations which could cause thousands

Motorists across the UK are being warned of a rise of rat infestions in their vehicles this winter.

To explain why rats and mice flock to cars and garages in the cold, and to help car owners prevent infestations this winter, experts at classic car insurance specialist Lancaster Insurance have provided their top tips.

“Rats and mice are increasingly finding their way into parked cars, especially over winter, because vehicles offer warmth, shelter and plenty of hidden spaces to nest,” explains Yvonne Gosney, Senior Trading Manager at Lancaster Insurance.

Once inside, they can cause serious and costly damage – chewing through wiring, upholstery, air filters and even plastic panels. This can lead to electrical faults, steering failures, engine damage and a mess of nesting materials, droppings, and unpleasant odours.

Rodents may also find their way into garages during the colder months, spaces that offer even more warmth and protection. And with many Brits storing or parking cars in garages during winter, this can be a recipe for infestations.

So, how can motorists stop this from happening?

“Prevention is far better than the cure,” adds Yvonne. “Because rodents are attracted to leftover food, keep your car and garage free of rubbish and vacuum regularly to remove crumbs.

“There can be dozens of potential entry points for rodents to access your car – from air vents and wheel wells to gaps in bodywork or pipes – so it’s a good idea to seal what you can with steel wool.”

Rats and mice like to hide; it makes them feel secure enough to nest. And once they’ve nested, your rodent problem will only worsen. Keeping a tidy space can help here, so clear out cardboard boxes, old clothes and other materials, and avoid covering your vehicle with a sheet, which can create more opportunities for rodents to nest.

“Strong scents such as peppermint oil, dryer sheets or certain soaps may also help keep them at bay,” adds Yvonne.

“Most importantly, drive the car regularly. Movement and noise are often enough to deter rodents before they settle in,” concludes Yvonne. “A few simple precautions can save you from extensive damage and a very unpleasant clean‑up!”