How to Clean Car Engine from Oil
A dirty engine can lead to a number of problems, including decreased performance, increased fuel consumption, and even engine failure. Cleaning your engine regularly will help to prevent these problems and keep your car running smoothly.
What You’ll Need
- Engine degreaser
- Bucket
- Water
- Sponge or brush
- Rags
Instructions
1. **Safety first.** Before you start cleaning your engine, make sure that the engine is cool and that you are wearing gloves and eye protection.
2. **Apply the degreaser.** Spray the degreaser onto the engine, making sure to cover all of the oily areas.
3. **Let the degreaser sit.** Allow the degreaser to sit for the amount of time specified on the product label.
4. **Rinse the engine.** Use a bucket of water to rinse the engine thoroughly.
5. **Scrub the engine.** Use a sponge or brush to scrub the engine, paying special attention to the oily areas.
6. **Rinse the engine again.** Rinse the engine again with water to remove any remaining degreaser or dirt.
7. **Dry the engine.** Use rags to dry the engine thoroughly.
Tips
- If your engine is very oily, you may need to repeat steps 2-5 several times.
- Be careful not to get water into the electrical components of your engine.
- Once you have cleaned your engine, it is a good idea to apply a coat of engine protectant to help keep it clean.
FAQs
- How often should I clean my engine?
- You should clean your engine every 3-6 months, or more often if you drive in dusty or oily conditions.
- Can I use dish soap to clean my engine?
- No, you should not use dish soap to clean your engine. Dish soap can remove the protective coating from your engine and can also cause damage to the electrical components.
- How do I know if my engine is clean?
- Your engine is clean if it is free of oil and dirt. You can also check the oil dipstick to see if the oil is clean.
