Why Should a New Car's Engine Be Washed?

[JosephLee]

Washing a new car's engine is aimed at protecting the engine's safety. Regular engine cleaning not only prevents the blockage of lubrication channels but also helps to some extent in removing carbon deposits from piston rings and ring grooves, thereby maintaining the engine and extending its service life. Engine cleaning method: Prepare a paintbrush, spray bottle, engine compartment surface cleaner, two cloths, and a high-pressure air can. First, remove surface dust with the high-pressure air can, then spray the engine compartment surface cleaner, being careful not to spray it inside the battery or fuse box. Wait for about ten minutes before wiping it dry. For wiring connectors, avoid using the engine compartment surface cleaner; instead, clean them with a damp cloth. For stubborn oil stains and crevices, use the spray bottle and paintbrush for careful cleaning, ensuring to control the water amount, spray method, and avoid sensitive areas. Finally, dry any remaining water in the engine compartment with a cloth or by idling the engine to evaporate the moisture. Benefits of engine cleaning: The engine's interior is lined with oil channels, which over time can accumulate sludge and other contaminants. Engine cleaning helps to remove these sludge impurities from the oil channels, ensuring the proper functioning of the engine's lubrication system. By cleaning away sludge and carbon deposits that affect the engine's normal operation, the engine's performance can be improved, and its lifespan extended.

[SebastianRose]

I often help friends with their new cars and think engine cleaning is quite necessary. New cars fresh from the factory may have transport dust or anti-corrosion oil residues. If not cleaned, these residues can gradually accumulate, clogging the radiator fins or causing slight corrosion, which affects the engine's cooling efficiency and lifespan. I recommend a professional cleaning after taking delivery of a new car—using a soft brush and compressed air to gently remove surface debris, followed by an engine-specific cleaning spray, avoiding water entering sensor areas. This not only prevents potential faults but also keeps the engine bay looking clean and tidy. With regular maintenance, the car runs smoother and quieter. Remember to wear gloves for safety and avoid randomly hosing it down yourself.

[SanNicole]

My first car was brand new, and every time I washed the engine, it felt like the car was refreshed, with a shiny exterior that gave me a great sense of achievement. The accumulation of dust and grease made the engine bay look dirty, but after cleaning, I would open the hood, take photos, and share them on social media, where friends would like and admire them. I prefer using eco-friendly cleaners, spraying them on and waiting for ten minutes—the dirt naturally falls off without vigorous scrubbing, making it quick and convenient. A reminder for beginners: don’t use high-pressure water jets, as water getting into electrical connectors could cause short circuits, leading to costly repairs. Regular cleaning keeps things fresh, ensuring the car doesn’t look old even after years of use, and maintaining it well keeps your mood good too.

[AaronAnn]

I have experienced issues after washing the engine, so I don't recommend doing this for new cars. New cars are already clean from the factory, and washing may remove protective grease or allow moisture to penetrate, causing circuit short circuits and sensor damage. The repair costs are high, so it's better to save time by checking the oil and tire pressure for safety and reliability. As long as you drive normally without off-roading, dust won't affect performance. New cars don't require this extra step, and the risk is too great unless performed by a skilled technician.

[Chad]

Whether to wash a new car's engine depends on the specific situation. Generally, it's unnecessary. New cars come from the factory with protective films, and excessive cleaning may wash away beneficial coatings like rust-proof oil. The first few weeks of driving a new car are the break-in period—focus on normal driving. A slightly dirty engine bay is no big deal. Only use a hose to rinse if you've driven through mud and the engine is covered in grime. Otherwise, just wipe the surface with a dry cloth to keep it tidy. Avoid over-maintenance to save time and hassle. A new car should be about enjoying the drive, not making a fuss over minor details.