Can the car engine compartment be washed with water?

[JosiahLynn]

Can the car engine compartment be washed with water? The precautions are: 1. The engine must be running when washing; 2. Avoid prolonged washing of any single engine component; 3. After washing, immediately use a high-pressure air gun to dry it, ensuring that no water enters the engine wiring harness connectors, thus preventing vehicle malfunctions. An engine is a machine capable of converting one form of energy into another, typically transforming chemical energy into mechanical energy. Methods for maintaining a car engine include: 1. Regularly changing the engine oil and oil filter; 2. Keeping the crankcase well-ventilated; 3. Periodically cleaning the fuel system; 4. Regularly cleaning the radiator; 5. Periodically cleaning the crankcase.

[LaBrady]

I think this depends on the specific vehicle condition and cleaning method. Last time during maintenance, I specifically asked an experienced mechanic, and he said the engine bay can indeed be rinsed with low-pressure water, but the key is to avoid electrical connectors and air intakes. Once I saw my neighbor directly spraying the ignition coil with a high-pressure washer, which ended up frying the ECU and costing thousands in repairs. It's advised not to wash when the engine is hot, as temperature differences can easily cause sensor failures. We veteran car owners usually just wipe off surface dust with a damp cloth after driving. If you really want a deep clean, it's better to use a dedicated engine bay foam cleaner—spray it, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse. It's worry-free and safe.

[SanJosiah]

As someone who frequently DIYs car washing, I basically dare not rinse the engine bay with water. A friend's car once broke down midway due to wiring faults caused by rinsing. Nowadays, there are specialized engine bay cleaning pastes on the market that work exceptionally well when sprayed on and scrubbed into crevices with a soft brush to remove oil sludge. If you must use water, you have to disconnect the negative battery terminal, and the rinsing should only target the top metal cover plate, staying far away from the battery and fuse box. After washing, I usually use compressed air cans to blow dry any water accumulation in the corners, especially ensuring the sensor connectors are thoroughly dried. When it comes to cleaning the engine bay, it's better to do it less often than to risk damaging it.

[VonAlaina]

Personal experience suggests that using water for cleaning is not recommended. I've seen too many cases in repair shops where engine washing led to unstable idling. The engine control unit and alternator are most vulnerable to water damage. Actually, there's now a steam cleaning method that uses 120°C high-temperature steam with amazing degreasing effects, completely avoiding water spray. During cleaning, the air filter assembly and fuse box must be wrapped with waterproof cloth. Professional shops perform anti-leakage treatments, but DIY attempts carry too much risk. I'd rather spend some money to have the 4S dealership handle it during quarterly maintenance.