Do You Need to Turn Off the Engine When Washing the Car?
2 Answers
You need to turn off the engine when washing the car. Precautions for car washing: 1. Do not wash the car when the engine is not completely cooled down, as it will cause premature aging of the engine. 2. Do not wash the car under the scorching sun, otherwise, it will leave dried water marks on the car body. 3. Do not wash the car in very cold weather, as the water freezing may cause the paint film to crack. 4. Do not use water other than soft water for washing, as it may damage the paint. Hazards of not washing the car for a long time: 1. Affects driving: A dirty car surface can affect the driver's vision, especially when driving at night, making the view more blurred and affecting driving safety. 2. Seal aging: The car's sealing strips will age if not cared for in time, leading to poor sealing and reduced comfort during rides.
I always turn off the engine when washing my car—it's an absolute must for safety. If water splashes onto the exhaust system or under the hood while the engine is running, hot components can produce steam, potentially causing burns or short circuits that damage electronics. I recall an accident report where water entered the exhaust pipe due to washing with the engine on, leading to a minor explosion—very dangerous. Car manuals usually recommend turning off the engine during washing to avoid any risks. By the way, I take the opportunity during car washes to check tire pressure and inspect the lights, doing a bit of maintenance. Turning off the engine also saves fuel, especially when queuing at car washes, and reduces emissions, which is better for the environment. In short, safety first—there’s no downside to making this a habit.
