Soy-Based Wiring – How to Help Keep Mice Out
Rodents are attracted to soy-based wiring because of its composition. These animals perceive the soy-based insulation as a food source.
Understanding the Issue of Soy-Based Wiring and Rodent Attraction
Rodents, particularly mice, rats, and squirrels, have become a significant concern for vehicle owners due to their tendency to damage wiring and other components in cars. This issue has been exacerbated by the automotive industry’s shift from petroleum-based wiring insulation to soy-based insulation. While this change was intended to be more environmentally friendly and cost-effective, it has inadvertently attracted rodents who find soy-based materials appealing as a food source.
Why Rodents Are Attracted to Soy-Based Wiring
The primary reason rodents are attracted to soy-based wiring is its composition. These animals perceive the soy-based insulation as a food source, especially during colder months when they seek warmth and shelter. The engine bay of a vehicle provides an ideal environment for rodents due to the heat generated by the engine, making it a cozy nesting spot. This combination of factors has increased reports of rodent damage in vehicles equipped with soy-based wiring.
Common Areas of Damage Caused by Rodents
Rodents can cause extensive damage in various parts of a vehicle, including:
- Electrical Wiring Harnesses: Chewing through wires can lead to electrical failures or short circuits.
- Air Conditioning and Heating Ducts: Nesting in these areas can obstruct airflow and reduce system efficiency.
- Seat Cushions: Rodents may nest within seat cushions, leading to unsightly damage.
- Trunk and Storage Area Carpeting: These areas can also become nesting sites or be damaged during foraging.
- Fluid Containers Made of Plastic: Rodents may chew through plastic containers that hold essential fluids.
Health Risks Associated with Rodent Infestations
Beyond physical damage, rodents pose health risks as well. They can carry diseases that may spread through their droppings or urine. If they nest near the cabin air filter, they could potentially introduce airborne viruses and allergens into the vehicle’s interior.
There have been multiple class action lawsuits filed against car manufacturers that use soy-based wiring, alleging that rodents chew through the wires and damage vehicles.
Manufacturers
- Toyota A class action lawsuit was filed against Toyota, alleging that rodents are attracted to the soy-based wiring and chew through it. The lawsuit claimed that Toyota refused to repair the damaged vehicles.
- Honda A class action lawsuit was filed against Honda, alleging that rodents chew through the soy-based insulation on the vehicles’ electrical wiring.
- Kubota A class action lawsuit was filed against Kubota, alleging that the soy-based wiring in its products attracts rodents.
Lawsuit claims
- The lawsuits claim that the soy-based wiring is a design defect that can cause vehicles to stop in the middle of the highway, shut down, or be partially or completely inoperable.
- The lawsuits claim that the soy-based wiring is a bait that attracts rodents and entices them to chew through the wiring.
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