How to Clean Your Car’s Engine Bay

Get Your Vehicle Ready

To start the engine bay detailing process, allow the engine to cool down first. This is important if you’ve just returned from a drive or turned on the car. If not done, it can cause serious injury to you or damage the powerplant.

Gather Equipment

Next, you collect all the important tools and supplies for cleaning. Have these at arm’s reach to avoid moving back and forth when working. You’ll need:

• Protective Gloves
• A Blower or Vacuum Cleaner
• Degreaser
• Plastic Wraps
• A Steamer
• A Microfibre Cloth

Remove Debris, Dirt, and Loose Dust

Use a vacuum cleaner or a blower with a hose to dislodge sediments and dirt. If you are using a vacuum, ensure that sensitive engine components are not harmed. Too much pressure could shift them or cause other major damage. The next step in cleaning your engine bay is removing any accumulated dry debris. This includes things like leaves, needles, dirt, and dust.

Detach the Car’s Battery Terminal

Now, this step is very important. Carefully remove the battery and cover the electrical components with a plastic covering. This helps keep you safe from getting electrical shocks during the engine bay detailing. To disconnect the unit, find the positive terminal and remove the cable. Once it’s done, keep it aside safely. It’s better to remove the entire battery and clean the bottom as well.

This is the best time to use an engine cleaner to clean delicate sections. Since it’s taken out completely, no degreaser or water can harm them. Given below are the parts that need to be covered thoroughly before you start car interior detailing:

• The Battery (If you were not able to remove it)
• Ignition Wires
• Engine Control Unit

Lather the Engine Components

Apply a degreaser to the engine bay, covering all the components. This breaks down any grease or grime formed on the surfaces. Working in smaller sections while applying the engine bay cleaner. Once done, use a brush to loosen up the dirt and muck. Next, wash the area using a steamer and wipe it clean with a microfiber cloth to remove any remaining sludge. Repeat the above engine bay detailing process with the rest of the section, until the whole cavity is clean. Pay special attention to corners and crevices where dirt might accumulate.

Wash with a Pressure Washer

Most people ask, “Is it okay to wash the engine with water?”. Yes, it is, provided you wipe it dry again using a microfiber cloth. Once you are done with degreasing the engine bay, the next step is to wash it out thoroughly. If you are using a pressure washer, set it low to avoid damaging sensitive parts. After you are done washing off the degreaser, wipe down with a microfibre cloth.

Reconnect the Car Battery

Once everything is clean and dry, you can reattach the battery. All you need to do is locate the terminal, reconnect the cable and ensure the connection is secured well. That’s it! You are done getting your car detailed.

Park in a Garage and Cover

The most effective but easiest way to protect your ride from accumulating dirt is by keeping it covered in the garage. If you do not have access to one, always keep it covered. Ensure that it’s secured well so the wind won’t blow it off. What’s more, this also reduces the need for regular car exterior detailing.

Routine Car Wash

This is the most common way to keep your ride looking fresh and sparkling. All you require to wash your car is a hose, car wash soap, and a microfibre towel. If you don’t have the supplies at home, visit a car wash. Some offer self-wash services, while others take care of the entire process.

Vehicle Detailing

One of the best ways to keep your car’s engine bay clean is by detailing. The procedure involves deep cleaning and polishing, including the engine compartment. Expert detailers have the skill and expertise to get your car detailed without harming other parts.