Is Engine Bay Cleaner Effective?
2 Answers
Engine bay cleaner is effective under two conditions: 1. If the engine does not leak oil and only has surface dust and dirt, cleaning is not necessary and poses no harm to the engine; 2. If the engine leaks oil, regular cleaning is required. A common cause of engine oil leaks is a leaking valve cover gasket, which can spread oil over the entire engine. Oil tends to attract dust, and when mixed with dirt and exposed to the engine's high temperatures, it forms a thick layer of sludge. This sludge is corrosive and can accelerate the aging of wiring and rubber components.
Last time during maintenance, I tried the engine bay cleaner and the effect was quite noticeable. The accumulated grease and dust were dissolved and rinsed off thoroughly, making the wire connectors clearly visible. However, it requires specialized tools as ordinary water guns don't provide enough pressure. I clean it every six months and found that it helps delay rubber component aging and reduces radiator clogging. The key is to choose a neutral formula to avoid corroding the wiring. Applying some wiring protector after cleaning makes it more durable, but remember to disconnect the battery for safety. DIY saves money, but hard-to-reach corners can be tricky—if possible, getting a professional to do it ensures a more thorough job. Regular cleaning really keeps the engine bay fresh.
