Can the engine be cleaned with a water gun?
3 Answers
Engine can be cleaned with a water gun. However, it is not recommended to use a water gun under the following circumstances: Hot engine state: Due to the principle of thermal expansion and contraction, using cold water high-pressure washing on a hot engine may cause a rapid temperature drop, potentially leading to oil seal leakage or even cylinder block cracking in severe cases. Older vehicles: While high-pressure water guns can be used to clean the engine compartment of new cars, for vehicles that have been in use for a long time, although the engine compartment is insulated, there is still a risk of short circuits. It is best to ask a 4S shop technician to use an air gun for cleaning during maintenance.
As someone who frequently works on cars, let me tell you, never use a water gun to wash the engine, especially a high-pressure one. The engine bay is packed with various sensitive electronic components, such as sensor connectors, computer boards, and fuse boxes. Once water gets in, it can easily cause rust, short circuits, or even damage the entire system. Just last week, I repaired a car where the owner had blasted the engine with a high-pressure wash at a car wash, resulting in a water-damaged ECU that cost over a thousand dollars to fix. The correct method is to wait until the engine has cooled down (washing a hot engine can cause warping or cracking), apply a professional engine cleaner, let it sit for a few minutes to break down grease, and then gently rinse with low-pressure water or wipe with a damp cloth. It's advisable to protect the battery area to prevent water from entering. Regular cleaning removes dust buildup, improves cooling, and extends engine life. If you're not confident, just take it to a professional car wash—they have low-pressure equipment that’s safer and more hassle-free. Remember, a small precaution can save you big money; don’t risk it with high-pressure water.
I really enjoy working on my car myself, and cleaning the engine bay is a regular task. Using a high-pressure water jet is absolutely not allowed! The high-pressure water can seep into wire gaps, corroding components and causing short circuits or malfunctions. I personally use a specialized engine cleaning foam spray, letting it sit for a while to loosen the dirt, then gently rinse it off with a garden hose on low pressure, or simply wipe it clean with a damp sponge. During cleaning, it's crucial to avoid electrical connectors—you can cover the battery and main fuse with plastic bags beforehand. After cleaning, remember to dry it with compressed air or a dry cloth to prevent moisture buildup and rust. Regular cleaning also helps spot oil leaks early, allowing timely fixes before small issues escalate. If your car is parked outdoors where it collects a lot of dust, cleaning once a month is sufficient. Don’t use high pressure to save time—safety is far more important than convenience.
