Can the engine be directly washed with water?

[SanElias]

Yes, but it is not recommended to wash the engine directly with water. Specific measures: 1. Use a damp cloth to clean dust and oil stains on the engine surface as much as possible, while removing leaves and other debris inside the engine compartment to keep it tidy. 2. Try to avoid washing the engine with water. For an engine compartment that has not been cleaned for a long time and is particularly dirty, it is best to seal various electrical components in the engine compartment. Precautions for cleaning a car engine are as follows: 1. Water pressure should not be too high: Since there are various wires and electronic components in the engine compartment, if the water pressure is too high, slightly damaged wires can cause a short circuit, which may burn out the fuse in minor cases or even destroy the entire circuit board in severe cases, with very serious consequences. 2. Avoid washing with water when the engine is hot: Cleaning the engine when it is at a high temperature may cause the engine to suddenly cool down, which could lead to cylinder deformation or cracking in severe cases. Moreover, washing at high temperatures can produce a large amount of steam, which may affect the circuits. 3. Take waterproof measures: New cars' engines and circuits have good waterproof functions, so they can be washed directly with water. For vehicles older than three years, do not use a water gun for washing; instead, use a wet cloth for cleaning, and avoid washing the circuits directly, taking appropriate waterproof measures.

[LeVivian]

Last month when I washed my car, I tried rinsing the engine bay with water, and it really caused problems. That day, right after a long drive, I turned off the engine and immediately blasted it with a high-pressure washer. Later, when I started the car, the electronic system threw an error code. After towing it to the repair shop, they found that water had seeped into the wiring connectors, causing a short circuit in the ignition coils. The mechanic said older cars with aged wiring can't handle water rinsing, especially around the fuse box and sensor areas. Now, I only dare to use a damp cloth and specialized cleaner to wipe it down slowly. After all, repairs cost hundreds, not to mention the potential for more serious corrosion and rust issues. Keeping the engine bay clean is important, but you have to use the right method—otherwise, you might save a little now but spend a lot later.

[AylaAnn]

A while ago, my friend's car came back from the 4S shop after maintenance with a spotless engine bay, so I asked how they cleaned it. The mechanic advised against using water jets, even for new cars. Components like the car's computer modules and alternator may look sturdy but aren't waterproof—high water pressure could ruin them instantly. They use low-pressure steam guns with specialized cleaners to soften grease, then blow-dry with air guns. I've tried gently wiping with a water-dampened sponge myself, which works well too—the key is being gentle. Extra caution is needed when the engine's hot, as thermal expansion and contraction can warp parts. Anyone who's had car repairs knows replacing an electronic module costs way more than a car wash.

[Colton]

Last week my neighbor washed the engine with a hose, and the starter motor burned out the next day. I've seen this happen too many times - I really don't recommend cutting corners by hosing it down directly. The wiring connectors in the engine bay are all exposed, and even rainwater splashing on them can cause potential hazards. For car maintenance, I always use a wrung-out soft cloth to wipe it down. For particularly dirty spots, I spray foam cleaner on the cloth and then wipe. Remember to disconnect the negative battery terminal before cleaning - it's a hassle but ensures safety. After cleaning, it's best to drive the car for a few kilometers so the heat can dry any moisture in the corners. Nowadays some car washes offer professional engine detailing services - spending a few dozen bucks is better than doing it yourself, and they can also check for aging hoses while they're at it.

[DeTyler]

Last year when I ran an auto repair shop, I encountered three vehicles with ruined ECU boards due to engine washing. In fact, the waterproof rating of engine compartments is much lower than the exterior. The high-pressure water jets from car washes are powerful enough to destroy circuit boards. There are several danger zones to note during cleaning: Water near the air filter can clog the intake, generators short-circuit when wet, and the fuse box mustn't be touched at all. My routine is using compressed air guns to remove surface dust, then gently scrubbing oil stains with neutral detergent and toothbrushes. After washing, start the engine to let heat naturally dry it out - pay special attention to any water droplets around spark plugs. Regular cleaning prevents wire aging, but incorrect methods can literally wash your car into scrap.