Engine compartment cleaning

Cleaning the engine compartment is not only aesthetic, but also functional. The main benefits include better heat dissipation, easier detection of leaks or failures, prevention of dirt accumulation that can damage components.

Necessary equipment and materials

• Specific engine cleaner: avoid aggressive products such as acid or unsuitable solvents.
• Soft bristle brushes to reach the most difficult spots.
• Small brushes to remove stubborn dirt.
• Microfiber cloths for drying.
• Protective gloves and glasses to avoid contact with detergents.
• Air compressor or air gun to eliminate humidity.
• Protective bag or film to cover sensitive electrical components.

Detailed cleaning preparation

• Switch off the engine and let it cool: Avoid working on a hot engine to prevent damage and accidents.
• Protect delicate components: Cover the alternator, control unit, and other electronic devices with transparent film or plastic bags.
• Remove large residues: Use a dry brush or compressor to remove dust and leaves.
• Spray a specific engine cleaner on the dirty surfaces.
• Leave the product to act for 5-10 minutes.
• Use a soft brush or brush to remove caked-on grease.
• Focus on critical areas, such as near gaskets and engine mounts.
• Use a low-pressure water jet to remove the cleaner.
• Avoid directing water directly onto electrical components.
• Use an air compressor to remove residual moisture.
• Wipe the surfaces with a microfiber cloth.
• Leave the hood open for 1-2 hours to allow complete drying.
• Apply an engine protector (silicone spray or similar) to add shine and protect plastic and rubber surfaces.

Mistakes to avoid

• Using high-pressure water: it can damage gaskets and electronic components.
• Clean with the engine running or hot.
• Ignoring the protection of electrical components.

Periodic maintenance

It is recommended to clean the engine compartment once every 6 months or more often if you drive in very dusty or muddy environments.

Formulation examples

An engine compartment cleaner must be formulated to remove grease, oil, and dirt without damaging delicate components or leaving corrosive residues. Here are the main components:

Active ingredients

• Non-ionic surfactants (5-15%): They dissolve grease and facilitate the removal of oils and residues. They are gentle and suitable for sensitive surfaces.
• Degreasing agents (5-10%): Usually solvents based on aliphatic hydrocarbons or plant derivatives, designed to dissolve oil residues without attacking plastic or rubber.
• Chelating agents (1-5%): Such as EDTA or NTA, they stabilize mineral salts and prevent limescale deposits from forming on surfaces during rinsing.

Additives

• Corrosion inhibitors (1-3%): They protect metals from oxidation during and after cleaning. Example: nitrite or benzotriazole compounds.
• pH regulators (1-3%): Keeps the cleaner slightly alkaline (pH between 8 and 11) to dissolve grease and oil without being aggressive.
• Water-soluble solvents (1-5%): Such as butyl diglycol, which helps emulsify oily residues.

Solvent or water-based

• Water-based cleaners: Ideal for modern engines, less aggressive and easy to rinse.
• Solvent-based cleaners: More effective on stubborn grease, but require more care in removal to avoid residues.

Components that are not damaging to plastic and rubber

• Specific cleaners must not contain chlorinated solvents, strong acids or sodium hydroxide in high concentrations, which can damage gaskets and cables.

Fragrance and stabilizers

• Many products include a light fragrance to make the experience of use more pleasant.

Typical formula for a water-based detergent

• Non-ionic surfactants: 10%
• Soluble solvents (e.g. butyl diglycol): 3%
• Corrosion inhibitors: 2%
• Chelators: 2%
• Demineralized water: 83%

This formulation guarantees an effective and safe degreasing action for use on engines, avoiding damage to delicate components.