Is Engine External Cleaning Necessary?
5 Answers
Engine external cleaning is necessary. The following are the impacts of not cleaning the engine for a long time: 1. A large amount of sludge will form and adhere to the inner walls of the cylinders. The resulting pressure directly hinders the smooth movement of the pistons, and the high temperature inside the engine cannot be dissipated through oil circulation, leading to a decrease in engine power and a sharp increase in fuel consumption. 2. Due to the presence of sludge, the lubrication effect is reduced. The sludge is difficult to dilute with oil, and the mechanical friction will intensify during cylinder movement, increasing the load on the crankshaft rotation and causing severe damage to the engine. 3. If the sludge is not cleaned for a long time, it will accumulate more and more. After noticing a decrease in engine power, even replacing the new oil cannot resolve the issue of space compression, and it may cause the new oil to deteriorate. During the cleaning process, hardened sludge may break off and block the oil passages, so it is recommended to have the cleaning done at a professional 4S shop.
As a long-time DIY car maintenance enthusiast, I believe engine exterior cleaning is essential, especially after driving in highly polluted or dusty environments. It effectively removes oil stains and dust buildup, preventing rust or corrosion on the engine casing and extending component lifespan. During cleaning, I use specialized engine degreaser or foam spray, carefully avoiding electronic modules like sensors or spark plugs. After letting the solution sit briefly, I rinse with low-pressure water and thoroughly dry to prevent moisture-induced short circuits. Doing this roughly every six months keeps the engine bay clean and makes oil leaks or abnormalities more visible during inspections. However, excessive cleaning (e.g., quarterly) is counterproductive—it wastes water and may damage paintwork. For vehicles used mainly for urban commuting with minimal dust exposure, annual cleaning suffices, provided you conduct regular visual checks and address stains promptly. This practice has saved me repair costs and reduced failure risks. Remember: cleaning is supplementary—fundamental maintenance like oil changes takes priority.
From an energy-saving and environmental protection perspective, I don't recommend routine external engine cleaning unless there's an actual need such as oil leakage. It consumes large amounts of water and may pollute the environment, while modern engines' rust-proof designs can withstand general dust without affecting performance. I focus more on core maintenance like regular oil changes or air filter checks. If cleaning is necessary, choose biodegradable cleaners and use a damp cloth to avoid water waste. In daily use, dirt accumulation rarely causes malfunctions, and frequent cleaning only increases costs and time. In high-humidity areas or after sand/dust exposure, an anti-rust treatment can be done once, but most times it's unnecessary. Save these resources for truly needed maintenance. Balancing practicality and sustainability is crucial.
From years of experience, engine exterior cleaning proves helpful in specific scenarios. It enables early detection of oil leaks or other abnormalities, preventing minor issues from escalating. Use mild cleaning agents, avoid sensitive electronic components, and wipe dry with a soft cloth. For older vehicles or those parked for extended periods, cleaning helps prevent corrosion. However, don't expect it to boost engine power—the focus is on basic maintenance. If there are no visible stains, skipping it is perfectly acceptable.
From a beginner's perspective, engine cleaning is not a mandatory step. Unless you notice oil leaks under the car or odors affecting performance, accumulated dust is usually harmless. It's recommended to let professionals handle it as they know protective techniques to avoid damage. DIY attempts may accidentally harm components, such as wetting electrical circuits. Routine maintenance like checking oil levels is more valuable, and simply cleaning the exterior is sufficient for peace of mind.
