A snake in your car engine requires immediate action to protect both you and the animal. Snakes crawl into engine bays seeking warmth from the engine block, especially in cooler weather. They can hide in the engine bay, wheel wells, or under the hood. This guide covers safe removal steps.
Key Takeaways
- Do not start the engine if you suspect a snake is in the engine bay.
- Pop the hood and leave it open to remove the darkness and warmth.
- Use a long-handled tool to gently coax the snake out. Do not grab it.
- Call a professional for venomous snakes or if the snake is deep inside the engine.
In This Guide
Emergency Steps
- Do not start the engine. Starting the engine can injure or kill the snake and damage the serpentine belt, fan, or other components.
- Pop the hood from inside the car. Open the hood and leave it open. This removes the darkness and warmth the snake is seeking.
- Back away and wait. Most snakes will leave within 30 minutes to 2 hours once the hood is open and the environment is less inviting.
- Use a long-handled tool to gently coax the snake out if it does not leave on its own. Do not try to grab it.
- Call a professional for venomous snakes, or if the snake has wrapped around wiring or is deep inside the engine compartment.
Prevention
For more, read our snake ID guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a snake damage my car engine?
Yes. A snake can get caught in the serpentine belt, fan, or other moving parts, causing damage to the engine and killing the animal. It can also chew through wiring. Always check the engine bay before starting the car if you suspect a snake.
How do snakes get into car engines?
Snakes enter engine bays from underneath the car or through gaps in the wheel wells. They are attracted by the warmth of the engine block after the car has been driven. Small gaps in the undershield or bumper provide easy access.
How long will a snake stay in an engine bay?
A snake may stay in an engine bay for several hours to several days, especially in cooler weather. The residual engine heat is attractive. Opening the hood usually encourages it to leave within a few hours.
What should I do if I see a snake under my car?
Stay calm. Do not approach the snake from above, as it may be hiding in the wheel well or under the bumper. Open the car door from a safe distance, start the engine, and drive slowly forward. The vibration and movement will usually encourage the snake to leave.
The Bottom Line
A snake in your car engine requires a calm, methodical approach. Do not start the engine. Pop the hood, leave it open, and wait for the snake to leave on its own.
If it does not leave within 2 hours or is venomous, call a professional. Install a metal engine undershield to prevent future incidents. Always check the engine bay before starting the car if it has been parked for several days.
