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Impact of Cicadas on Automobiles
This summer, a significant event will occur in the American Midwest as the hatching of both the 13-year cycle Brood XIX and the 17-year cycle Brood XII cicadas are expected to take place. With an estimated billion plus of these insects springing to life, a massive legion will swarm the countryside, predominantly targeting Illinois, Missouri, and Georgia, along with spreading into fourteen other states from Texas to Maryland.
Effects on Vehicles
There are numerous ways in which these bugs can disrupt your automobile, making it essential to be adequately prepared beforehand. Though they may not invade cities like Mothra, cicadas can still inflict damage, whether by swarming at high speeds or burrowing into filters.
Running into Cicadas
When encountering a large group of cicadas while driving, there are four main factors to consider: visibility issues, potential paint damage, clogged radiator grilles, and even direct impact if windows are left open. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that your windshield washer fluid is regularly replenished to maintain clear visibility.
Cicadas, while not heavy enough to cause structural damage, can worsen existing cracks on windshields. It is advisable to promptly remove any guts left on the vehicle’s paint, as they are acidic and can lead to lasting damage if neglected. Mirrors and bumpers are particularly susceptible to this type of harm.
To prevent overheating issues due to reduced airflow across the radiator fins caused by an influx of bugs, consider installing mesh behind open grilles or ensuring frequent cleaning of tight mesh grilles. Furthermore, it is wise to learn from past incidents, such as an Ohio man’s collision with a telephone pole following a cicada’s intrusion into his vehicle through an open window.
Burrowing Cicadas
These insects have a tendency to seek out comfortable spots to burrow, which can pose a risk to cabin filters and engine air filters. Regularly checking for unusual sounds coming from the filter housings can help detect any cicada-related issues early on. It’s advised to clear out these filters as needed or seek professional help if handling bugs directly is not preferable.
In conclusion, staying composed during a significant bug invasion this summer can potentially save you from costly damages or unwanted visits to the hospital. By actively safeguarding your vehicle against cicada-related disruptions, you can ensure a smoother driving experience during this period of heightened insect activity.
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