Washing your car engine is one of the secrets to keeping your vehicle in good condition, but many drivers ignore this essential practice.
Do you know? how to wash a car engine in the correct way, without compromising the electrical system or the most sensitive components? With this in mind, CPG spoke to the specialist from DR Auto Mecânica, who gave valuable tips on how to do this cleaning and the necessary care. After all, a clean engine can prevent future problems and even make it easier to identify oil and other liquid leaks.
Maintenance is not just about aesthetics: the importance of washing your car engine
Every driver who wants to ensure longevity of your vehicle you need to understand that wash the car engine It's not just a question of aesthetics. Engine cleaning helps prevent accumulated dirt from impairing the functioning of parts. For example, oil, grease and residue can build up over time, making it difficult for the engine to ventilate and dissipate heat, as well as hiding possible leaks.
According to the DR Auto Mecânica specialist, the first thing to do is to protect the components that are most sensitive to water, such as modules and cables. “We put a bag in to protect the module and other components. This protection is essential, especially in more modern cars,” the professional highlighted. Without proper care, water can cause short circuits and other electrical problems., so this is the first step before starting the wash.
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How to wash your car engine safely
One of the main concerns during washing is the engine temperature. Never pour cold water on a hot engine., as this can crack the engine block. Wait for the engine to cool completely before starting the washing process. The use of degreasing products is essential to remove the most difficult dirt. The DR Auto Mecânica specialist recommends the use of industrial degreasers that can be found in auto parts stores.
Another important care is do not apply high pressure directly to radiators or delicate parts, such as fuses and cables. For these parts, it is best to use a gentler jet that does not cause damage. High pressure can deform or even puncture parts such as the radiator, so caution is required.
Frequent maintenance prevents serious problems
Keeping your engine clean isn't something you do once and forget about. Periodic maintenance is crucial, especially if the car frequently goes through dirty or muddy terrain. “After the first wash, it is best to always wipe it with a damp cloth and keep the engine clean,” suggests the specialist at DR Auto Mecânica. With a clean engine, it is much easier to identify leaks and other problems, which helps prevent more serious failures in the future.
In addition to making it easier to detect leaks, proper maintenance improves engine efficiency. Dirty engines can overheat because dirt prevents proper heat dissipation. Therefore, wash the car engine regularly contributes directly to the vehicle's performance and longevity.
Extra care: what to avoid when washing your car engine
It’s not just water that can be harmful to your engine. Certain cleaning products can be too abrasive and damage delicate components. The DR Auto Mecânica specialist always recommends using specific products for washing engines, avoiding products that contain aggressive solvents. Always be careful with spark plugs and spark plug wires, which can accumulate moisture and cause misfires.
Another fundamental point is that, after washing, dry all areas thoroughly that have been wet, especially around electrical cables and connectors. If you don't have an air compressor, a hair dryer can help remove moisture and ensure the engine is dry before starting it again.
Question to readers: Do you wash your car engine regularly?