Rats Are Wrecking UK Cars and the Repair Bills Are Getting Nasty
You’d expect potholes or parking dings to damage your car, not tiny furry intruders. But across the UK, rodents are becoming one of the most unexpected and expensive threats to motorists.
Yep… rats and mice are chewing through cars, and it’s costing drivers thousands.
Rodent Damage Claims Are Surging 🚗🐀
New data shows insurance claims linked to rodent damage jumped 28% in just one year, and the average repair bill now sits at nearly £2,500 per claim.
And it’s not just small fixes either. Some cases are brutal. One driver saw rats chew through the wiring loom of their Porsche Cayenne, leading to a £7,000 repair bill.
So what’s going on?
Why Are Rodents Targeting Cars?
During colder months, mice and rats search for warm, safe places to hide — and your car engine bay is basically a cosy hotel.
They can sneak in through tiny gaps around:
- Grilles
- Vents
- Wheel arches
- Open windows
- Underbody openings
- Once inside, things get messy.
Rodents chew wiring, damage insulation, shred engine covers and sometimes even build nests in engine compartments. Mechanics have even found nuts and food stored inside cabin fans and ventilation systems.
And here’s the kicker…
Modern cars often use bioplastic coatings on wiring, which experts believe rodents actually find tasty. So newer vehicles aren’t immune — they might even be more attractive targets.
It’s Becoming a Nationwide Problem
UK councils have recorded half a million rodent infestations since 2023, and pest control companies say callouts related to vehicles are becoming more common every year.
Garages now regularly see cars returning after repairs because rodents come back and chew through the same components again.
And pest controllers admit there’s only so much they can legally do, as permanent baiting isn’t allowed due to risks to protected wildlife.
How Can Drivers Protect Their Cars?
While there’s no guaranteed fix, motorists can reduce risk by:
• Avoiding parking near rubbish areas or overgrown spaces
• Keeping cars clean inside and out (no food smells)
• Driving regularly instead of leaving cars unused for long periods
• Checking under the bonnet if the car has been parked for weeks
• Using deterrent sprays or ultrasonic devices where suitable
If your car suddenly shows warning lights, struggles to start, or electrical systems behave strangely, it might be worth checking for pest damage.
The Hidden Cost of Vehicle Ownership
Rodent damage is just another reminder that owning a car can come with unexpected costs. Repairs, insurance claims, and downtime all add up — especially when damage hits critical wiring systems.
That’s why many drivers now look at leasing as a way to keep costs predictable, driving newer cars under warranty with fewer surprise repair bills.
Final Thought
Most drivers worry about traffic, fuel prices, or insurance premiums... not rats eating their engine wiring.
But with infestations rising, it might be time to add one more thing to your car care checklist: making sure uninvited passengers aren’t moving in under your bonnet.
Leasing your next car or van with Express Vehicle Contracts means driving a brand-new vehicle with predictable monthly costs and full manufacturer warranty, helping you avoid unexpected repair bills down the line.
Say YES to Express.
