A University of Arkansas student's GMC vehicle was left with extensive and costly damage after a groundhog chewed through critical wires and hoses inside the engine compartment while the car sat parked for two days.
Unusual Incident Leaves Family Stunned
Amanda Hollis reported that the groundhog tore through key components of the vehicle between Tuesday and Thursday night. When her son attempted to drive to the store, he immediately discovered something was seriously wrong under the hood.
'We are currently dealing with something I have NEVER experienced or even heard of, and neither has our insurance,' Hollis wrote in a detailed Facebook post about the bizarre occurrence. 'And thank goodness the guys got video, because I still don't believe it.'
Substantial Repair Costs and Insurance Implications
The family subsequently received a repair estimate from their dealership totaling approximately $4,900. Hollis revealed that their insurance agent believed the vehicle might potentially be considered a total loss due to the extensive nature of the damage.
'Personally, growing up kind of in the South, I have heard of mice eating cars. I've heard of squirrels eating cars. I've heard of raccoons… possums… kittens… dogs chasing things up in vehicles,' Hollis told 4029tv. 'This one. This one is a first.'
Persistent Rodent Behavior
Hollis explained that the family attempted to chase the groundhog away for about twenty-five minutes, but the animal repeatedly ran back to the vehicle, demonstrating unusual persistence. The groundhog ultimately bit through the wires sometime between Tuesday, when her son parked the vehicle, and Thursday night, when he tried to drive to the store.
Common Winter Problem According to Experts
While this incident may be a first for the Hollis family, rodents chewing through car wires is not particularly uncommon, especially during winter months. According to global pest control company Terminix, rodent-related vehicle damage often spikes significantly during colder periods as animals seek out engine bays for warmth and shelter from predators.
While some people believe rodents are specifically attracted to wire coatings, Terminix clarified that they chew wiring harnesses and plastic hoses primarily because their teeth grow continuously and must be worn down through gnawing.
Significant Safety Risks
In addition to causing mechanical failure, these animal intruders pose a substantial fire risk. Rodents frequently drag dry leaves, paper, and various nesting materials into engine compartments, which can potentially ignite once the vehicle reaches normal operating temperatures.
Prevention and Insurance Considerations
To prevent such incidents, Terminix has advised keeping garages clear of debris and thoroughly sealing any entry points, noting that mice can fit through holes as small as a dime. The company also noted that most comprehensive auto insurance policies typically cover such incidents, though standard manufacturer warranties generally do not provide protection against animal damage.
