Can the engine be directly washed with water?
2 Answers
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.
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.
