What can I put in my car to clean the engine?

Author: Ibrahim Lang  |  Last update: Saturday, April 12, 2025

Simply gather the following household cleaning equipment before you begin:
  1. Soapy water solution in a spray bottle.
  2. Degreaser cleaning spray.
  3. Soft bristle brushes in various sizes.
  4. A garden hose with a low-pressure spray nozzle.
  5. Rags or microfibre cloths.
  6. Baking soda (an optional extra)

What can I use to clean a car engine?

The safest way is to use a low-pressure garden hose to wash things off. On older cars you should cover the engine with a garbage bag (to protect electrical connections). Then take some degreaser (Dawn + water works great) and use some brushes to scrub away areas. You can do this on the uncovered engine area.

What can I use as a substitute for engine cleaner?

Another method to make a highly efficient homemade engine degreaser is to combine two parts ammonia, two parts water, and one part liquid dish soap.

Is it okay to spray your engine with water?

No, this is not recommended. Pouring water on your engine can cause damage to the engine, as it can cause corrosion and rust. It is best to use a coolant to cool down your engine.

Is WD-40 good for cleaning engines?

WD40 is a great degreaser and great on metal engine parts and wiring. Is very sticky on plastics and therefor attracts dust. Is very safe to use, much safer than water or strong degreasers, as it won't corrode electrical connections. On the other side it's not long lasting, but yes as a cleaner is a great product.

The Quickest & Safest Way to Clean an Engine Bay! (GUARANTEED)

What is the best method for cleaning engine oil?

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Engine Oil
  • Step 1: Initial Inspection. Start by checking your engine for leaks or signs of damage. ...
  • Step 2: Pre-Rinse the Engine Bay. Gently rinse the engine bay with water to remove loose dirt. ...
  • Step 3: Apply Degreaser. ...
  • Step 4: Scrub Tough Oil Stains. ...
  • Step 5: Rinse and Repeat.

Is it OK to spray your engine with a hose?

A simple garden hose or a small electrical pressure washer will suffice. If you're using a pressure washer, make sure you're keeping it at a respectful distance away from the engine.

Is it safe to power wash a car engine?

Using a pressure washer, start with the lowest pressure setting and a softer, wide-angle spray tip (at least a 25-40 degree angle tip) to avoid blasting water into the electrical components. For this job, starting with a PSI under 1,500 should be more than sufficient.

Can I use Dawn dish soap to clean an engine?

Yes, dish soap can work for cleaning engines if you dilute it with water first. It's very safe as long as you rinse it thoroughly since it's not anywhere near strong enough to damage things like paint, but if the engine is very dirty, it may not be particularly effective either.

What do mechanics use as a degreaser?

Water-based degreasers are common in a trigger sprayer, or in gallon or drum containers for immersion or batch system cleaning. Specialized equipment like ultrasonic or vapor degreasers are available for more automated cleaning.

What is the best homemade solution to clean the inside of a car?

Instead of buying specialty cleaning products, try this DIY car interior cleaner for carpets and carpeted floor mats. Mix 3 tablespoons grated Fels Naphtha bar soap (see above), 2 tablespoons borax, 2 cups boiling water and 10 drops lavender essential oil in a bowl or jar.

What is the best way to clean the inside of an engine?

To clean the engine through the engine oil we recommend that you do an oil change. After cleaning through the oil, all sludge, tar and dirt are released and that comes out when you change the oil.

Is WD-40 a degreaser?

WD-40 is a lubricant dissolved in a solvent. While it can break down grease and oil to a certain degree, it also adds back some. This might be desirable if you are cleaning a hinge, conveyor, or corrosive-prone part, but not if you need it truly clean.

What should you avoid when washing a car engine?

Avoid using household cleaners or harsh chemicals that can damage rubber, plastic, and metal components. Start by removing loose debris and dirt using a soft-bristled brush or compressed air. Be gentle to avoid scratching surfaces or dislodging essential components.

Can I power wash under my hood?

Yes, pressure washing the car engine is a good idea, only if you do it the right way. The engine bay doesn't just house the engine, but it has some other components including the alternator and the battery that can get damaged due to high pressure.

Is it OK to wash engine with water?

Now, this is a question I always get. The short answer is yes, but before you go out and start blasting water at your engine, there are three important things you need to know. Firstly, you need to make sure that the engine is completely cool before you start washing it with water.

How can I clean my engine without damaging anything?

Remove dry debris, dirt, and loose dust with a brush or vacuum. Unhook the car battery terminal, and protect electrical components with a plastic covering. Apply a degreaser and scrub with a detailing brush. Rinse with a pressure washer or steamer, and wipe dry with microfiber towels.

Are car engines waterproof?

No matter how high-tech and advanced your car is, cars are still not proven to be waterproof. Driving through puddles of deep, standing water causes water to get sucked into the engine which can cause car breakdowns or long-term damage to your car.

Can I pressure wash my car?

Use the right amount of pressure

Although many electric pressure washers produce a pressure of about 1900 psi, you should only use a water pressure of 1500 psi or lower on your car. You'll need to look for a low-pressure machine that's a bit less aggressive than the standard.

Are engine flushes a good idea?

Regular engine flushes bring multiple benefits to the table. They enhance the overall engine performance and extend its service life. This practice also allows you to reduce engine wear and tear, increase fuel efficiency, and reduce the risks of expensive repairs.

What do mechanics use to clean oil?

Berryman® B-33 Engine Degreaser

And with no phosphates, abrasives, solvents, or VOCs, it's completely safe for use with your vehicle engines and small engine parts. That includes lawn mowers, hand tools, machinery, fleet, farm, and marine equipment.

Can I clean my engine with brake cleaner?

While this variety of cleaners is great for cleaning up brakes and metal electrical components within your car, it's far from ideal for most engine parts. Most brake cleaners are based on isopropyl alcohol, which is tough on grease but doesn't mesh well with the plastic and rubber components within the engine.

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