Why Is My Check Engine Light On? Rodents Might Be to Blame!

September 13, 2024

Why Is Your Check Engine Light On? Rodents Might Be to Blame!

At Wayside Garage, we recently helped a client with a check engine light, traction control light, and poor engine performance. Our certified technician, Jonathan, found an unexpected culprit: rodents had chewed through the wiring!

When the car was brought in, it wouldn’t stay running. After running diagnostics, Jonathan discovered a mass airflow sensor code. This sensor, which helps measure the air going into the engine, had been damaged, but that wasn't the only issue. Under the hood, we found clear signs of rodent activity—chewed wires and seeds near the sensor.

Why Rodent Damage Happens

Rodents like mice and rats are notorious for seeking shelter in warm engine compartments, especially during colder months. They can chew through wires, causing significant damage to your vehicle’s electrical system. In this case, the wiring harness near the mass airflow sensor had been chewed, affecting the car's performance.

To get our client back on the road, we:

- Replaced the damaged mass airflow sensor.
- Repaired the chewed wiring harness.
- Cleaned out any rodent debris under the hood.

We also recommended some rodent deterrents like peppermint oil, dryer sheets, and Fresh Cab sachets, which can be placed in the engine compartment to keep rodents at bay.

Preventing Future Damage

To avoid issues like this, it’s essential to have your vehicle inspected every six months. At Wayside Garage, our digital vehicle inspection includes checking for rodent activity and other potential issues before they become costly repairs. Regular inspections are part of our maintenance plan and can help extend your car’s life.

Could Insurance Cover Rodent Damage?

In some cases, extensive rodent damage may be covered by your car insurance. If you discover significant wiring damage, check with your insurance company to see if they’ll help cover the costs of repairs.

If you're due for an inspection or suspect rodent damage, call Wayside Garage today at (831)-899-2425 or schedule an appointment online.

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ARE MY BRAKES SAFE?

By Stacey Diaz • October 14, 2025

October is more than just pumpkin patches and crisp fall air. For many families in Monterey, it's also the start of darker evenings, wetter roads, and more time on the road. That’s why October is the perfect time to think about one of the most important safety features on your vehicle: your brakes. At Wayside Garage, we participate in the Brakes for Breasts campaign every October. It's not just about brake repair — it’s about raising awareness, supporting breast cancer research, and keeping our community safe on the roads. ________________________________________ What Are the Signs Your Brakes Might Need Attention? Your brakes are your first line of defense in an emergency. If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, it’s time to get your brakes checked: • Squealing or grinding noises • A soft or “spongy” brake pedal • Car pulling to one side when braking • Vibration or shaking when you press the brakes • Increased stopping distance Ignoring these signs can lead to expensive repairs down the road — or worse, a serious accident. We always say: if it feels off, bring it in. ________________________________________ Why Brake Inspections Matter More in Fall With more rain, shorter days, and holiday travel ahead, your brakes are under more stress in the fall. At Wayside Garage, we see an uptick in emergency brake repairs this time of year — many of which could have been avoided with a quick inspection. Our certified technicians will perform a comprehensive brake check, looking at: • Brake pads and rotors • Brake fluid level and condition • Brake lines and hoses • Calipers and hardware And if you’re part of our Wayside Garage Maintenance Plan, your brake inspections are included with your scheduled services. That’s one more reason to stay on track with routine care. ________________________________________ Brakes for Breasts: Repair With a Purpose Every October, we join auto shops nationwide for the Brakes for Breasts campaign. Here’s how it works at Wayside Garage: • You get free brake pads (you only pay for labor and any additional parts if needed). • We donate 10% of the brake job to the Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Vaccine Fund. It’s a meaningful way to protect your family on the road while supporting groundbreaking research that could change lives. ________________________________________ Why Choose Wayside Garage for Brake Service? We know you have options when it comes to brake repair in Monterey. So why do so many drivers trust us? • Family-owned and operated since 1946 • ASE-certified technicians who care about doing it right • Honest inspections and clear explanations • Free digital vehicle health reports • A shop built on integrity, hospitality, and professionalism When you bring your vehicle to us, you're not just another ticket — you're part of the Wayside Garage family. ________________________________________ Schedule Your Brake Inspection Today October is the best time to have your brakes checked — and support a great cause while you're at it. Whether you’re noticing a problem or just want peace of mind before the holidays, give us a call or schedule an appointment online. Let's keep your vehicle — and your community — safe this fall.