Put down the pumpkin spice, y’all. This is a serious warning as the spooky season gears up. Spiders are coming out in full force. This may not seem like a serious issue, but it can cause catastrophic damage to your car. 

How spiders can hurt your car 

The autumn months of September and October pose various threats to drivers as it marks peak spider activity. I know what you’re thinking, seasonal damage to cars is more related to leaves eroding the paint or winter weather.

However, these arachnids shouldn’t be ignored as they venture out in search of mates. Your car could provide the perfect shelter for them as they look for love. 

Yellow sac spiders are a natural intruder that enjoys nesting in fuel vent lines, posing a hidden risk. According to Wiringo, modern SUVs use wiring harnesses with up to 24 circuits to power essentials like the fuel pumps, ignition, and airbags. 

Even small disruptions may lead to a sudden power loss, reduced efficiency, or fire hazards, proving that webs in vent lines are a serious threat. 

Director of Wiringo, Hommer Zhao, explains that modern fuel systems are finely tuned. Even a tiny obstruction may disrupt the balance of air and fuel flow. 

Most drivers are unaware that something as small as a spider web in a vent line can create the same type of blockage as a mechanical fault. 

Protect your car by keeping it clean. Vacuum the interior and clear leaves and debris that spiders might enjoy hiding in. Then seal the gaps around your window and door seals. 

Consider parking away from trees, bushes, and damp garages where creepy crawlers like to hang out. Also, have your mechanic inspect the vents, hoses, and undercarriage during routine checks to catch infestations.