How to Wash Car Engine Bay

Materials You’ll Need

• Engine degreaser
• Hose with nozzle
• Bucket
• Soft-bristled brush
• Clean rags

Step 1: Prepare the Engine Bay

1. Park your car in a well-ventilated area.
2. Allow the engine to cool down completely.
3. Disconnect the battery.
4. Remove any loose items from the engine bay.
5. Cover any sensitive electrical components with plastic bags.

Step 2: Apply Engine Degreaser

1. Spray the engine degreaser liberally over the engine bay, avoiding electrical components.
2. Allow the degreaser to sit for the time specified on the product label.

Step 3: Rinse the Engine Bay

1. Use the hose with nozzle to rinse the engine bay thoroughly, starting from the top and working your way down.
2. Avoid spraying water directly into electrical components.

Step 4: Scrub the Engine Bay

1. Dip the soft-bristled brush into the bucket of water and scrub the engine bay to remove any remaining dirt or grime.
2. Pay special attention to areas where dirt tends to accumulate, such as around the battery and intake manifold.

Step 5: Rinse the Engine Bay Again

1. Use the hose with nozzle to rinse the engine bay again, starting from the top and working your way down.
2. Make sure to remove all traces of soap.

Step 6: Dry the Engine Bay

1. Use clean rags to dry the engine bay thoroughly.
2. Pay special attention to areas where water can pool, such as the battery terminals and spark plugs.

Step 7: Reconnect the Battery

1. Once the engine bay is completely dry, reconnect the battery.
2. Start your car and let it run for a few minutes to ensure everything is working properly.

Tips

• Don’t use high-pressure water to wash the engine bay, as this can damage electrical components.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners, as these can damage the paint and other surfaces in the engine bay.
• If you’re not comfortable washing the engine bay yourself, you can take your car to a professional detailer.
• Wash the engine bay regularly to prevent dirt and grime from building up.