Maintenance · Bosch Car Service Roeselare
Marten damage repair
Martens seek out the engine bay because it is warm and dry, especially at night right after the engine has cooled down. The animal's territorial behaviour causes the real problem: a marten chews through cables and rubber hoses, sometimes to mark its territory, sometimes simply from its biting instinct. You usually only notice once the engine will not start or the engine light comes on.
We trace the damage with a thorough visual check of the engine bay and a diagnosis of the electrical circuits, then repair the chewed cables or hoses. Afterwards we discuss with you how to prevent it happening again, since a marten that knows your spot often comes back.
What are the signs of marten damage?
- The engine will not start or cuts out while driving for no clear reason
- The engine light or another warning light suddenly comes on
- Strange noises or vibrations that were not there before
- Visible bite marks, hair or droppings in the engine bay
- A sharp smell under the bonnet (martens mark their territory)
Why Cornette?
- Thorough diagnosis of the electrical circuits, not just replacing the visible cable
- Repair for all brands, with original-quality cables and hoses
- Practical, tailored advice to prevent it happening again
- A free quote up front, also handy for your insurance claim
What does it cost?
Prices for this service are coming soon. In the meantime, ask for your free quote and you get an estimate the same day.
The exact price depends on model and engine. Ask for your free quote and you get an estimate the same day. That way you are never surprised.
Free and without obligation
Payment options
Pay the way that suits you.
Bank transfer
Before or after the work, with an invoice.
Cash up to € 3,000
The legal limit for commercial transactions. Above € 3,000 the balance is paid electronically.
Pay in instalments with Klarna
We are working on offering instalment payments.
Frequently asked questions
Does my insurance cover marten damage?
Many comprehensive (omnium) policies cover marten damage, and some third-party policies with add-on cover do too. It varies a lot by insurer and policy, so check your policy conditions or call your broker. We provide a clear quote and repair invoice you can attach to your claim.
Why do martens chew through cables and hoses specifically?
Nobody has a definitive answer, but the most common explanation is territorial behaviour: a marten marks its territory and drives off intruders, and the scent of another marten on your engine can make it aggressive. Rubber hoses and cable insulation are also soft enough to chew through easily.
How do I prevent it happening again?
There is no fully watertight guarantee, but a few measures help: marten deterrents (ultrasonic or light-flash), regularly checking the engine bay, and avoiding food waste or rubbish near your parking spot. We are happy to discuss which approach fits your situation.
Can I see for myself whether I have marten damage?
Often not until it is too late: a chewed cable is usually only noticed once a system fails. Visible signs like hair, droppings or bite marks on rubber parts are a clear signal. If in doubt, we check the engine bay thoroughly for you.
Is it dangerous to keep driving with marten damage?
That depends on which cable or hose is damaged. A chewed hose in the cooling or fuel system, for example, can lead to breakdown or even a fire risk. If a warning light comes on or you notice a strange smell, come by as soon as possible for a check.
How long does a repair take after marten damage?
That depends on which cables or hoses are damaged and how accessible they are. A single cable is often repaired within half a day; more extensive damage to a wiring harness can take longer. After the diagnosis we give you a clear estimate of the time and cost.
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