As long as used cars have existed, dealers have been propping the hoods to show a clean, shiny engine to would-be buyers. We all love the aesthetic benefits of a clean engine, and it can prevent corrosion and related problems. So here are a few best practices about how to wash a car engine to get it ready to be seen.
Safety First
Behind every warning label is a story about someone who didn’t pay proper attention. Skipping safety can get you hurt and damage your inventory. Remember:
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Let the engine cool before you get started
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Protect electronics, alternator, battery and exposed wires (Plastic bags work well)
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Wear proper safety equipment (Gloves and eye protection)
Engine Cleaning Kit: What You Will Need
The supplies can easily be found around most business locations, homes and auto parts stores:
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Engine Degreaser
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Water Hose
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Rinse Bucket
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Soft-Bristled Brush
The Steps for Cleaning Car Engine
The actual process is pretty intuitive:
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Hose down the engine
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Apply degreaser to the solid surfaces
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Wait 5 to 10 Minutes for the degreaser to do its work
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Use the brush to gently scrub any places with concentrated gunk
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Rinse with the hose
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Dry (By air, or by towel if you’re in a hurry)
Final Touches
Put some anti-corrosion grease on the battery terminals. Then be sure to remove whatever you covered the electric components with. You can also find several products that add a layer of protection to prevent grease from building up again in parts you want to look pretty.
Additional Engine Cleaning Advice
We don’t want any of our members to become cautionary tales, so we leave you with these parting words of wisdom.
No pressure washers – Power tools are awesome, but in this case more power can fry electronics, and damages hoses & belts.
And take the time to protect all the electric components like the alternator or distributor. The standard 13.8 to 14.4 volts driving 110 to 200 amps of electricity in a car won’t kill you, but it will hurt enough for you to accidentally teach children some new words their mothers would prefer they not know.
So, stay safe and enjoy a clean mouth along with a clean engine.
If you need some additional motors to clean, be sure to check out our Copart Select inventory and join us at 11 a.m. CT Mondays for our weekly wholesale auction.
