As the UK transitions from summer to autumn, an unforeseen hazard may be hiding in our cars – yes, it’s spiders. In the UK, spider season generally spans from September to mid-October, when these arachnids are most active and noticeable. In their hunt to find mates, they often come into our homes and vehicles.

Whether you hate spiders or love them, a significant infestation can be dangerous. Drivers may incur up to nine penalty points and a fine of £2,500 for careless driving, with the possibility of even harsher penalties depending on the nature of the incident. To help people avoid this potential hazard, Pamela Murdock, a vehicle expert at AvailableCar, has offered advice on how to keep spiders at bay this autumn.

She emphasised the importance of staying focused while driving, saying: “It’s vital that all drivers are 100 percent focused on what they are doing when they’re behind the wheel and any distraction, big or small, has the potential to be fatal.”

She added: “If your concentration is suddenly diverted by something inside the vehicle this could constitute driving without due care and attention or careless driving. If a spider does appear, it’s important to stay calm and keep both of your hands on the wheel to maintain control of the vehicle. If possible, find a safe place to pull over to remove the spider without endangering yourself or others on the road.”

So what can I do to keep the spiders away?

Fill your car with smells spiders dislike

Spiders hate strong scents like lemon, lime, orange, peppermint and tea-tree. You can create your own solution by combining essential oils with water and spraying it in your car or buying an air freshener. Lavender is also said to repel spiders, but its sleep-inducing properties make it unsuitable for use in a car.

Add cinnamon sticks to your car door

Spiders also hate the smell of cinnamon. So rather than just using it in your pumpkin-spiced lattes and holiday treats, consider placing cinnamon sticks in your car doors. This will not only give your vehicle a pleasant fragrance but also serves as an excellent substitute for those who are not a big fan of essential oils.

Keep your car clean

To deter spiders, keep your car , both the inside and out, clean. and make sure you do it regularly, not only to prevent spiders but also the insects they prey on such as flies. Insects can be drawn to leftover food in your vehicle, which in turn may attract spiders. White vinegar is an effective cleaning agent for your car’s interior and also acts as a spider repellent. Be vigilant for cobwebs on the outside of your car, especially near areas such as the wing mirrors. Since spiders are drawn to moisture, make sure to dry your car completely after washing.

Using a car cover overnight can also help deter spiders from settling in.

Silica gel packs, often found in packaging to keep items dry, can be placed in your car to help reduce humidity. Spiders are drawn to moist environments, so keeping your car dry can make it less appealing to them. Tuck a few packs in discrete areas of your car, like under the seats or in the glove compartment. It goes without saying, but always ensure your doors and windows are fully closed when you aren’t in your car, to prevent spiders from entering when you’re not looking. If you are working on your car, whether this be cleaning or maintenance, make sure you close any doors or windows you aren’t using, to avoid extra ways for them to sneak in.