itz MURDAH

Hey, I'm about to get my car buffed out to take away all the marks off my car soon. Do you guys recommend me to get an engine wash also? I heard that an engine wash is alittle unsafe because it can loosen wires and stuff but the engine is so damn dusty

DetailersDomain

its a good idea to wash your engine once or twice a year.

make sure the person you are going to knows what he/she is doing.

tonymac

Yes!

aresh

i would like to wash my engine as well, but how do i go about doing it? what do i cover?

TexaZ3

Guys, seriously, check the detailing forum.

itz MURDAH

ok thanks ... I just got the car last summer so might as well do everything before it starts getting too hot ... do you guys know any places in NY that you could recommend for the engine wash?

gmethod

I clean my engine once a month. I've never had any issues with loose wires. Unless your engine is extremely dirty..no need to take a powerwasher to it (although I have done it a few times before). I usually cover the alternator with a plastic bag not to let too much water into it. Be mindful of connectors and stuff like that. Overall it's pretty safe to do it yourself. I use Meguiars All Purpose Cleaner diluted to about 50% and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. Get a long, soft brush to the the scrubbing. Not much elbow grease needed here. Let the APC and soft brush do the work. I also have some specialy brushes to reach the tight spots but most don't go that far. I take great pride on having my engines clean and they look like new. good luck!!

w84me

I like to keep my engine clean including hood. IMO You should be able to invite your girlfriend over for dinner and use the engine as a table w/o upsetting her .

I try do it when engine is cool with the theory that the cold water applied on a hot part creates undue stress from big instantaneous temperature swings. Not sure if there is any merit to that, but better safe than sorry.

I try to use water only, and for tough spots same stuff I clean body with, in other words using nothing more powerful than necessary. Usually car wash soap gets the job done, last, make sure to rinse everything off, or you might get a permanent soap stain baked in.

Here's a few pics of last weekends cleaning - did it while changing filters, if you pop off you cabin micro filters you'll find lots of dirt that needs cleaned up inside there too.

If you do end up using the power washer, be careful of the stickers too.

rrnag30

Just washed the engine bay - used a technique from a the M5 board. Scrubbing Bubbles! Just need to find a finish dressing to get that brand new shine look.

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