Looking for advice

Hi all, I just found this site while researching a possible mouse issue in my vent intake/motor. So far there's a rattle when the fan motor is switched on and an odd nasty smell, I don't know where to begin trouble shooting, I wish to fix the issue and learn what I should do to prevent this from happening again, preferably permanently.

 

You're probably going to need a new cabin air filter and should remove the blower motor and inspect. Mice usually get stuck and die in there. Clean it with 50/50 clorox and water mix, then let dry in the sun. You could also spray frigi fresh in your vent intake (near windshield cowl)to combat mildew. Prevention: no food in car, and try a rodent spray under hood, near wire harnesses, firewall etc.. I have an electric rodent repell device mounted in my engine compartment which seems to be working.

 

Agreed. OP will likely find nesting material sitting on top of the cabin air filter. Thanks for the tip about the rodent spray. I need to look into that.

 

You're welcome, this is what I use. It says not for engines on bottle, but I spray it around wires, under intake, and where the harness goes through firewalls. I also spray around the wheel wells and especially wheel speed sensor wiring. The wiring near the fuel pump and charcoal canister gets a shot also..
https://www.homedepot.com/p/TOMCAT-...evention-Continuous-Spray-036830605/302683092

 

Welcome from Arizona! Cabin filter removal and replacement for sure and look under the hood for signs of rodent poop, chewing, missing insulation, etc. A spray such as ExterminatorsChoice.com has worked quite well for me.
Good luck!

 

I've found 12V electronic devices I'm ordering now, also a spray "Grandpa Gus's Potent Mouse Repellent, if all else fails I'll look into a Flame Thrower, LOL
Thanks to all for the quick replies.

 

Welcome

 

Welcome from the center of the bourbon universe.

 

Welcome to the forum.

As others have stated, I would first remove the in cabin and take a look in there first.

 

Welcome

 

Welcome from Wisconsin!

 

Welcome from San Diego!

 

Welcome

 

Get a couple different products and experiment. Grandpa Gus's is the first thing I tried. Didn't work too well. I still saw evidence of infiltration. Maybe it will work for you, though. What works for me now is peppermint essential oil and spray from CVS. But really, even with sprays, I think the key is to move your vehicle daily. And spray need to be reapplied daily. Get lazy for two days in a row and you will see evidence again. I also remove the plastic beauty cover off the engine. I did a lot of research on those electric gizmos. Some people swear by them, but there are just as many people that say they don't work. Keep on top of it daily and you will figure out what works for you.

Here is a link to a write up where a guy puts mesh over the opening to exclude varmints.
https://www.4runners.com/threads/keep-mice-out-of-the-cabin-filter.24836/

Although there are lots of possible entry points, my theory is that the buggers climb up the tire and climb over the UCA and into the engine bay (would be cool if someone could prove/disprove with video). So, I make sure to coat the heck out of the tire treads with the peppermint spray.

Can you tell that I have given this issue some thought? Sometimes I feel like the Bill Murray character in Caddy Shack!