How to Clean a Car Engine?
2 Answers
After prolonged use, carbon deposits, dust, and oil buildup inside the engine require both internal and external cleaning. External cleaning is relatively simple and can be done by yourself, while internal cleaning mostly involves the use of additives. Here are the specific steps: 1. Use car cleaning agents to reduce carbon deposit formation: Carbon deposits form due to impurities in gasoline. Using higher-purity gasoline can reduce carbon deposit formation. Some car cleaning agents can also activate the carbon particles formed on metal surfaces. 2. Regularly clean the car’s intake system: Performing necessary cleaning on the car’s intake system can effectively reduce carbon deposit formation. Therefore, owners should clean the intake system every 30,000 kilometers or so.
Cleaning a car engine requires careful operation. I usually wait until the car has completely cooled down before opening the hood, then cover the battery and fuse box with a cloth to prevent short circuits from water exposure. Prepare a specialized engine cleaning spray, apply it evenly, and let it sit for a few minutes to soften the dirt. Next, use a soft-bristle brush to gently scrub areas with oil sludge, especially around the intake valves and crankcase cover where carbon buildup is common. When rinsing, use a low-pressure water gun or spray bottle to slowly wash away the cleaner, avoiding direct high-pressure sprays to prevent damage to electronic components. After cleaning, it's best to start the engine and let it run for a while to evaporate any moisture, then thoroughly dry it to prevent rust. Performing this cleaning every six months can significantly extend the engine's lifespan and improve performance—I find it quite cost-effective to do it myself. Remember to check the cleaner's instructions and avoid strong acids or alkalis to prevent corrosion of engine parts.
