How To Wash A Car Engine At The Carwash?

Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd

Keeping your car engine clean is a priority for any car owner. It not only helps the engine work better, but it also keeps it looking good. Washing a car engine at the car wash is an easy and quick way to get your engine looking brand new again. It’s a straightforward process. Here’s how you can wash your car engine correctly at the carwash:

Wash A Car Engine At The Carwash- Step-By-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Let Your Engine Cool Up First

Before attempting to wash the car engine at a car wash, it’s essential to let your engine cool up first. This is especially important if you have been driving the car recently, as it will be hot and can cause serious injuries or burns when touched. To prevent this, allow your car to sit for around 20 minutes after turning it off and before moving on to step two in washing your car engine.

Step 2: Tighten Up All The Caps And Dipstick

Start by opening your vehicle’s hoods and locating the main engine components, such as spark plugs, alternators, and starter motors. Ensure that these are securely tightened before continuing. These components should be tightened with an adjustable wrench or socket set. If they feel loose, take extra care when tightening them back up.

Step 3: Disconnect The Battery Terminals

Locate the positive and negative terminals of your car’s battery, usually clearly marked with red for positive (+) and black for negative (-). Disconnect the positive terminal first, then the negative terminal. If removing the battery entirely, use an appropriate tool to remove it from its tray or mount. Make sure that you safely secure it away from any other metal components before continuing to clean your engine compartment. Cover up both ends of each terminal so as not to accidentally short-circuit them while cleaning your engine compartment!

Step 4: Cover Electrical Parts And Filters

Be sure to use water-resistant spray paint or plastic wrap to keep these components from getting wet. Use caution for the electrical parts and ensure that water does not come in contact with them during the engine wash. Additionally, any air filters should be covered with plastic wrap or foil to prevent them from getting soaked in water and help preserve their condition. Make sure to place a few pieces of duct tape around the edges of whatever material you choose to ensure they remain secure throughout your car wash.

Step 5: Wear Protective Gear

Wearing protective gear is essential when washing a car engine. This includes wearing thick rubber gloves, safety glasses, and a long-sleeved shirt and pants. Wear boots or closed-toed shoes to prevent chemical or hot water from splashing onto your skin. Wear long hair in a bun or hat to keep it out of the way while you work.

Step 6: Remove The Debris From The Engine

Carefully inspect the engine compartment and look for any loose objects that could block the airflow or get in the way of cleaning. This includes things like leaves, dirt, dust, and other debris. Use a pair of pliers to remove any large pieces of debris stuck inside crevices or hard-to-reach places.

Step 7: Degrease Your Engine

Using a degreaser, spray down any parts of the engine covered in grease or dirt. This will help break down any grime that has built up over time and make it easier for you to remove it with a brush or rag.

Step 8: Rinse Out Your Engine

Start by turning on the water at a low flow rate, as too much pressure could damage certain areas of your engine. Aim the nozzle of the hose towards different parts of your engine while letting it run until they are covered in water. Ensure all the crevices and components are thoroughly rinsed off with water. Pay special attention to areas where dirt and gunk buildup may be present such as around hoses, wiring harnesses, and fan shrouds.

Step 9: Dry Up Your Engine

Use compressed air to blow away excess moisture in hard-to-reach areas. Take your time with this step since drying off all the dampness is essential for preventing rust and corrosion on your car’s engine.

Step 10: Clean Electrical Parts By Hand

Using a soft brush, gently scrub the electrical parts with soapy water to remove dirt and grease. Take extra care when scrubbing delicate components such as wires and connectors.

Step 11: Put The Battery Back

Use a clean cloth or brush to wipe off any dirt or debris that may have stuck onto the battery terminals. Then, place the cables on both posts (positive and negative). You can then use a wrench or screwdriver to secure them. Be careful not to cross thread as this can cause damage and corrosion.

Attach back the cover of the battery box if you removed one earlier. This will help protect your battery from unnecessary exposure and weather elements like dirt and water, which can reduce its performance over time.

Step 12: Apply Engine Bay Dressing

Engine bay dressing is a type of product specifically designed for automotive engines and works by adding a protective layer that helps to repel dust, dirt, and other contaminants. Make sure to choose a product designed for use in the engine bay, as this will ensure it does not adversely affect any components or electronics within the engine compartment.

How Do I Dry My Engine After Washing It?

You can use a microfiber cloth or soft brush to remove excess water from the engine surface. Make sure to get into all the tight spaces and hard-to-reach areas. You can also use compressed air or a leaf blower set on low speed to help blow off any remaining water droplets and debris from the engine.

Conclusion:

Washing a car engine is an important part of car maintenance that should not be overlooked. Following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily and quickly wash your car engine at the car wash. Don’t forget to use protective gloves, eyewear, and clothing, so you don’t get any cleaning solutions on your skin. Ensure you let the engine dry before turning it on again to avoid damaging it.