How To, Car Engine Detailing

We generally never open the hood unless there’s something wrong or to change fluids, making it easy to ignore the accumulation of debris and grime. Detailing your engine bay is as important in upholding your vehicle’s value as cleaning the rest of your car.

Let Your Engine Cool

If you just got back from a commute, let your engine cool to a warm temperature before you begin. You do not want the products you will be using to bake onto the surface of your engine.

Remove Loose Debris

Any leaves, crumbs, sticks, or other large debris should be removed manually or with an air compressor before beginning.

Cover Vulnerable Parts

The engine of modern cars, those made after 2005, should be waterproof. Inspect the engine for parts you suspect should stay dry. If you have to think twice, cover the part with a plastic bag. Openings, filters, and intakes are the most important parts to protect during this process.

Apply Degreaser Or All-Purpose Cleaner

Spray your engine from the bottom up to prevent grime dripping down the surfaces you’ve already cleaned. Let the product sit for a few minutes to loosen the grime from your engine, but do not let the product dry. If your engine is heavily soiled, use a long handles brush along with a soft-bristled detailing brush to further loosen the dirt.

Rinse

Using a low PSI pressure washer or garden hose, carefully rinse your engine. Make sure all traces of cleaner and grime are completely washed off of your engine’s surface and let sit air dry for a few minutes.

Drying

Remove any plastic bags or coverings. If you have an air compressor or blower, dry the engine with either. Thoroughly dry off any remaining water with a microfiber towel.

Protecting And Shine Your Engine

When your car was originally manufactured, the factory applies high-grade wax to your engine. When this is removed, it leaves your engine vulnerable to corrosion. There are a wide variety of products you can utilize to protect your engine, we recommend P&S Shine All Performance Dressing. Regardless, it is imperative that you protect your engine post-detailing.

Overview Of Car Engine Detailing

Regardless of the products you choose to use, it is imperative that you clean and protect your engine every few months at the least. This, alongside proper detailing of the rest of your vehicle, will help you preserve its value. If you don’t feel comfortable detailing your own engine bay, we recommend bringing it to a professional mobile detailing service or shop.