Can the Engine Be Washed Directly with Water?
3 Answers
Engine can be directly washed with water, but the following precautions should be taken: 1. The engine must be running during the cleaning process; 2. Avoid prolonged washing of any single engine component; 3. Immediately after washing, use a high-pressure air gun to dry the engine to prevent water from entering the wiring harness connectors and causing vehicle malfunctions. An engine is a machine that converts other forms of energy into mechanical energy, suitable for power generation devices. Maintenance methods include: 1. Regularly changing the engine oil and oil filter; 2. Maintaining good crankcase ventilation; 3. Periodically cleaning the fuel system; 4. Regularly cleaning the radiator; 5. Periodically cleaning the crankcase.
Last time at the car wash, I saw a young guy directly spraying the engine with a high-pressure water gun, and I quickly stopped him. If water seeps into the ignition coils or the ECU circuit board, it could be disastrous—repairs would cost dozens of times more than the car wash. Older cars are especially vulnerable to water because their rubber seals have aged, and the wire connectors can't withstand the pressure. If you really need to clean it, disconnect the battery, use a specialized engine foam spray, let it sit for ten minutes, scrub off the grime with a small brush, and finally rinse lightly with low-pressure water before stopping. However, avoid even a drop of water around the air filter box—if water gets in, it could enter the cylinders directly, leading to a major overhaul.
Last month I took the lazy way out and hosed down the engine bay, only to have the check engine light come on the next day. The mechanic said water caused the spark plug electrodes to rust, resulting in misfires - the whole ignition coil set had to be replaced. I've learned my lesson now - for oil stains I use kitchen wipes to clean slowly, and for tight spaces I use a vacuum. The components most vulnerable to water under the hood are actually the alternator and fuse box - repairs for these easily run into thousands. Experienced mechanics recommend steam cleaning every six months - it costs about a hundred bucks but saves headaches and is much safer. The money saved from washing with water isn't even enough to buy a set of spark plugs.
