Washing the car engine: what you can (or can’t) do

Cleaning the engine safe requires care, as in modern cars there are many water-sensitive electronic components

It is possible to make it look new, but it requires patience and a lot of attention (Foto: Chevrolet | Divulgação)
By Eduardo Rodrigues
Published on 2026-05-17 at 01:00 PM

It has become a habit for Brazilians to wash their cars on weekends, either on their own or taking it to a professional. One part of the car that doesn’t always go into cleaning is the engine.

Many do not wash this part of the car because it is always hidden, while others avoid it for fear of the damage they can generate when wetting electronic parts. But let’s bring some tips for those who want to make the engine safe shine.

SEE ALSO:

What should not be done when washing the engine

The main concern when washing the car engine is to protect the electrical part. Harnesses, control panels, sensors and modules must be isolated so as not to receive water.

According to mechanic Ludovico Ballesteros, owner of Pitucha Centro Automotivo, it is necessary to avoid strong jets of water in the engine and be careful with the products used. Those that are too aggressive or abrasive should be avoided.

The specialist recalls that some models are more sensitive and require even more care when washing:

The Fiat Tipo could not see water at all, his whip sent the water to the central and burned the part. The TSI engines, the EA888, burn many sensors if it comes into contact with water.”

How to wash the car engine

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The main care is to isolate the electronic parts of the safe (Photo: Shutterstock)

The job of cleaning the engine requires care. Electronic components must be well protected and insulated. And the engine must be cold.

For cleaning, it is necessary to use specific products to wash the engine and water. Ballesteros washes the engine of the cars that pass through his workshop as a courtesy and recommends using pressurized water for cleaning.

Wait for it to dry or wipe with a cloth before removing the protection placed on the electronic components.

The damage if you don’t wash the engine properly

Using products that are too abrasive can cause damage to the engine hoses and plastic parts. But the biggest concern here should be with the electrical part.

Wetting a module or sensor can cause it to short-circuit. Depending on the part that was wet, there is a risk of electrical failure in the car, which will affect the management of the engine and accessories.

As washing the engine does not affect its operation, do the service only if you are sure of what you are doing or if you trust the professional. It is better to have a dirty and well-functioning engine than to risk an electrical breakdown.

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