Anyone with a car knows how good it feels to get behind the wheel when it’s just fresh from the suds, especially when regular cleaning can make them look good as new. 

But does your car look as well-conditioned under the hood? The engine bay may not be exposed to the harsh elements out in the open road, but dirt, debris, and other forms of dander can slip under your radar and into the car’s front end. 

Fortunately, there are easy ways to keep your car’s engine clean and running like a well-oiled machine. For handymen who don’t mind getting their hands dirty, the tips below should shed light on some crucial factors to consider when cleaning your car’s engine bay the right way: 

Tip #1: Take a Picture of the Engine Bay First 

Before anything else, it’s good practice to take a picture of the engine bay first before taking it apart. Nothing feels more frustrating than guessing your way through when it’s time to put parts back to their proper place and attachments, especially if you’re planning to take a deep dive into the engine bay.

Tip #2: Prepare the Cleaners and Chemicals Suitable for Cleaning Engine Bays

It pays to plan ahead when you’re preparing for your car’s regular clean-up, literally! If you grab whatever cleaning supplies and detergents you find in your local store, you may end up wasting your money if they’re not appropriate for the job. Not to mention, there’s a risk of damaging the engine if you use cleaners that are too harsh for your car.

Note down what you’ll need and vet the suitability of the following cleaning supplies and products:

• Absorbent Pads;
• Wash Brush;
• Engine Degreaser;
• Plastic and Metal Cleaner;
• Drip Pan;
• Car Wash Mitt;
• Car Wash Soap.
• Microfiber Towels;

You’ll also need a bucket and plastic bags, but there’s no need to focus on the brand when it comes to these things. As for the medium when washing, avoid a pressure washer and always opt for a gentler option such as a water hose. 

Tip #3: Wait Until the Engine Cools Down Before Cleaning 

It’s tempting to jump the gun and get right into cleaning, but it’s better to knock off any loose layers of dust and grit to prepare the engine bay for further washing. Don’t forget to let the engine cool down, especially the hot spots for an hour, at most. 

Conversely, you should disconnect the battery terminal or at least protect it with a plastic bag before you introduce any water to avoid turning this chore into a fire hazard. 

The Bottom Line: Keeping Your Ride Spick-and-Span for the Road Ahead

Cars are one of the hardest working horses that play a major role in everyday life, but going through the daily traffic can make any vehicle look worn out. Taking the time to remove the built-up grime on your engine bay can do wonders for improving its performance. From spotting potential problems early on, removing corrosive materials, to getting rid of hotspots, keeping your engine bay squeaky clean is the key to ensuring your car never runs out of steam. 

Where Can You Find All-Purpose Cleaners for Your Business?

Are you on the hunt for the best cleaning products that can keep your commercial business spotless? 

Reliance Chemicals is the pioneer in the formulation and manufacturing of high-quality cleaning detergents and chemicals perfect for automotive, industrial, hospitality, construction, government and mining industries, so we’re sure to have quality products that meet your needs.  

Check out our extensive selection today!