How Often Should a Car Engine Bay Be Cleaned?
2 Answers
Car engine bays should undergo deep cleaning every 10,000 kilometers or every six months. In daily life, car owners with strong hands-on skills can also open the hood and use engine bay cleaning agents and brushes to perform simple cleaning and maintenance work on the engine cover, removing oil sludge and dirt to prevent the accumulation of dust and oil stains. It is important to note that high-pressure water guns should never be used when cleaning the engine bay. Although the components in the engine bay are waterproof, high-pressure water jets can still cause water seepage, and washing directly with water can lead to short-circuit faults in the car.
From my driving experience, there's no strict schedule for engine bay cleaning—it depends on personal circumstances. With mostly city commuting and minimal dust, washing it every eight months or so suffices. When doing it yourself, simply rinse with a hose when the engine is cold, avoiding high-pressure washers to prevent electrical damage. Focus on removing oil sludge and leaves to avoid rust or short circuits. Regular cleaning also helps inspect belt wear or other hidden issues. If frequently driving on muddy roads, washing every three to four months may be safer. Neglecting cleaning accelerates part aging, making repairs costlier—safety first.
