Washing your car engine can be a good idea, but it’s not always necessary. In fact, sometimes it can actually harm your car. So what’s the deal? Let’s take a look.
What is the definition of “dirty”?
Washed engines last longer, but what about the internals?
If your car has been sitting in the sun or rain, the oil and coolant will start to mix and form sludge. The sludge will attract particles from the air, which will make the mixture even dirtier. In extreme cases, this sludge can block fuel lines, spark plugs and other engine parts. Washing an engine regularly removes these built-up contaminants.
The Pros and Cons of Washing Your Car Engine
There are pros and cons to washing your car engine, but the overall decision depends on a few factors. Here’s a look at both sides of the debate.
The Pros of Washing Your Car Engine
1. You can reduce the chances of getting car troubles. By removing dust, grime, and other build-up from your engine, you’re reducing the amount of wear and tear it experiences over time. This can keep your car running smoothly and prevent any major issues down the road.
2. It’s a great way to clean your car. Besides cleaning the engine, washing it also removes dirt, pollen, and other allergens that can cause problems like asthma or hay fever in people who are sensitive to them. Plus, a good wash will leave your car looking shiny and new.
3. It’s environmentally friendly. By using water instead of harsh chemicals, you’re doing your part to help save the environment. Plus, you won’t have to worry about damaging your paint job or other delicate parts with harsh detergents.
4. It’s inexpensive.
How Often Should You Wash Your Car Engine?
If you maintain your car properly and regularly clean the engine, it will run smoother and last longer. But is it really necessary to wash the engine every time you get a tune up or oil change? The short answer is yes, most likely it is. A dirty engine can actually cause more problems down the road than a clean one. Here are some of the reasons why you should clean your car engine:
1) It Keeps Your Vehicle Running Smoothly
A dirty engine can cause problems with fuel economy, emissions, and performance. A well-maintained engine will run more smoothly and efficiently, which will save you money in the long run.
2) It Prevents Damage from Polluting Emissions
A dirty engine can release harmful gases that contribute to air pollution. Cleaning the engine regularly helps to prevent this problem.
3) It Helps Keep Your Car Running Safely
A dirty engine can also lead to unsafe driving conditions. A well-maintained engine will be less likely to catch on fire or fail suddenly while you’re driving.
What if You Don’t Have a Cleaning Service?
If you don’t have a regular cleaning service, there are a few things you can do to keep your car engine clean. You can try using a degreaser or Bio-Cleaner on a regular basis to clean the engine. Another option is to use a vacuum cleaner with the hose attachment to clean the engine.
Conclusion
Depending on the type of engine and the care you take, it might not be necessary to wash your car engine every time you bring it in for service. In some cases, a simple oil change might be all that is needed. However, if there are any visible dirt or debris particles on the surfaces of the engine, then it might be worth washing it. It’s also important to regularly check your car’s fluid levels and top off any low spots as necessary, so always have a full tank of gasoline when you go to get your car serviced.