How to wash a car engine without ruining things

If you clean the bonnet after the engine, it will get dirty again as water from the bonnet will drop on the engine. The bonnet doesn’t have any electrical components, so you can directly apply the degreaser and scrub it with a brush before proceeding towards the engine.

By Okello Samuel

Cleaning a car engine is equally important as cleaning the exterior of your car. The dirt accumulates under the hood, as it does on the exteriors. There comes a point where debris and grime start to negatively impact the engine performance. Therefore, adding engine cleaning to the car maintenance checklist is necessary to avoid hefty repairs and replacements.

MATERIAL REQUIRED FOR ENGINE WASH

Here is the list of materials that are required in the engine wash.

Stiff fiber brush

Blower

Face mask

Garden hose/pressure washer

Screwdrivers

Safety glasses

Degreaser

Electric tapes

Plastic wraps

In case you do not have any of the above-mentioned products at home, no need to worry. You can purchase most of these from shops around your neighbourhood.

START FROM THE BONNET

If you clean the bonnet after the engine, it will get dirty again as water from the bonnet will drop on the engine. The bonnet doesn’t have any electrical components, so you can directly apply the degreaser and scrub it with a brush before proceeding towards the engine.

STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO WASH CAR ENGINES

You cannot start the cleaning process if your engine is running hot. If the car was on the road, let the engine cool down. Cold water on a hot engine can increase the chances of damage and you can even burn yourself. Some professionals recommend slightly warming up the engine to loosen up the dirt.

The following steps will elaborate on the best way for a manual car wash.

STEP 1: PREPARE FOR THE WASH

The process of preparation starts from selecting a location permissible by law. It is suggested to wash cars inside the garage with proper drainage. Ensure that the weather is not too windy, as the sand particles can accumulate in the engine while it’s wet. Before proceeding, cover all the water-sensitive parts like; the battery, ignition wires, and engine control unit. You can use plastic bags and electric tape to wrap around engine parts. If you are washing an old engine, remove the negative terminal of the battery to prevent damage from water.

 

The negative terminal of a car battery.

*Remove battery terminals before washing.

 

STEP 2: DE-GREASE

Spray the hot water on all the exposed parts of the engine and let it settle for a few seconds. Now, use the degreaser on the engine parts and focus on the areas with built-up debris. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes.

STEP 3:  SCRUB AND REMOVE DIRT

Use a strong fibre brush to scrape off all the dirt and debris. Make sure you scrub it properly for adequate cleaning. If you have a modern vehicle, use a soft-fiber towel to clean the dirt. It is the best way to clean car engines without causing any harm.

STEP 4: WASH

Use a garden hose to wash any remaining dirt or stains. It is suggested not to use a pressure washer, as it can cause severe damage to the engine. Make sure not to stay longer at a single part. Instead, continuously move the hose to spray water equally and clean the car engine room.

 STEP 5: REMOVE PROTECTIVE LAYERS AND LET IT DRY

Wear gloves or dry your hands properly before touching the engine. Remove the protective plastic layers by folding it inwards. Dry all the parts by using a blower. If you do not have a blower, you can also use a vacuum cleaner. Set it on medium speed and blow directly on the engine. After this, wipe the car with the help of a dry cloth to remove water spots on the engine.

 

PRECAUTIONS WHILE WASHING CAR ENGINE

• Make sure you are using high-quality products that work adequately.
• Do not rush for household cleaning products, use products specifically made for car cleaning.
• Do not use a high-pressure washer, as it can damage the vital engine parts.
• Take a picture of your engine before removing any part, this will help in reassembling it. You can also use it to compare the before and after conditions of the engine.

FAQS

How to clean car engines at home?

You can clean your car engine at home provided you take safety measures such as covering electrical and sensitive components with plastic and disconnecting the battery. You can make your degreaser with just soap water and add some vinegar and baking soda for improved effectiveness.

 Is it safe to clean car engines with water?

It is generally safe to spray water and clean car engines as cars today are equipped with weatherproof housings across the engine bay. However, care must still be taken when spraying over sensitive electrical components as well as air intakes, alternators, and sensors.

How to clean a car engine safely?

For a safe wash; cover all the electric equipment with plastic and use a lower-pressure washer.

 

SAMUEL OKELLO 

B.Eng. Automotive and Power Engineering

Technical Director

S-Line Motors LTD

Plot 6, Ojara Close, Mbuya

https://goo.gl/maps/bEGeVEN7tUVTqHnu8

0779745722 / 0708000888