Dog Chews Through Car Wiring Under Seat—Toyota Technician Warns: Dangerous and Costly

Toyota technician Ben Gaul recently warned car owners on social media not to let dogs roam freely inside vehicles—especially under the seats. He shared a real-life case: a vehicle’s seat belt warning alarm kept going off abnormally, and upon inspection, it was discovered that the dog had chewed through four wires beneath the seat. The wire insulation contains soybean oil, which can be enticing to dogs as a "food-like" substance—but chewing on these wires poses serious risks of electric shock or even death. Even more concerning is the high repair cost: labor alone ranges from $1,000 to $1,300, with parts adding another $50 to $250. The technician recommends using pet seat belts, rear-seat hammocks, or securing dogs in sturdy, well-anchored travel crates. Additionally, hazards such as front airbags and allowing dogs to stick their heads out of open windows also pose significant safety risks. Experts stress: safe travel starts with properly restraining your pet.