I recently learned that rats like to chew on the rubber in Toyota engines because Toyota uses a soy-based product in the rubber and apparently that's why a rat chose to damage my Toyota! It chewed on the fuel injector and I had to pay to have the injector as well as the bracket it comes with replaced, plus having to have my car towed to the Toyota dealership! The damage has only happened once, but I found a nest in the engine since the part was repaired and it seems like it's just a matter of time until something more is chewed on!

At the mechanics suggestion I placed cotton balls around on top of the motor with pure essential peppermint oil on them and the critter used a couple of the cotton balls in making its nest in the engine! I also tied dryer sheets on several hoses as directed and the critter also used one dryer sheet in making its nest! I Googled to learn what more I can do to repel rats, I learned they do not like the scent of citronella. I have a couple of citronella plants in my shed for the winter so I cut off a couple of branches and put that under the hood of my car. They are very strong with citronella! As well, I put an open baggie of my dog's poop under the hood! I will check it frequently, however, it's a hassle having to check my engine on a daily basis as I am 79 years old and retired! If Toyota made the rubber under the hood appealing to rodents, then they should pay for the cost of repairs!!!