It is not uncommon for people to spray the engines of their cars while they are hot so that the water will evaporate right away. Could this damage the engine or other parts? What's the best way to clean the engine?
A jet of soapy water, a foam brush and a quick rinse - it all cleans up, yes. But you can end up with a shiny engine that won't start, or worse.
The engine compartment is not designed for large amounts of water. Therefore, if you supply water to places where it should not be, it can cause corrosion. Of course, there are people who say that they do this all the time and have no problems, but it's best not to risk it.
There are several pitfalls with pressure washing: Spraying high pressure hot or cold water on a hot engine can cool it too quickly, damaging the metal and (possibly) causing cracks. Water can enter the generator or engine sensors and cause damage.
Water can enter your engine through the induction system on the side of the air filter. Although unlikely, water can enter the cylinders and cause massive damage. Modern electrical systems must retain moisture, but water jets can still cause problems.
Why wash your engine at all?
An engine that is clean enough will impress anyone looking under the hood of your car. If you have an oil leak, it attracts dirt and needs to be cleaned accordingly. If you drive carefully, no oil or refrigerant leakage should occur, so the engine is cleaned strictly for cosmetic purposes.
If you want to clean up the dirt under the hood, it's a good idea to drive past the car wash and do it by hand with a rag and toothbrush. If you are going to clean the engine in order to prepare it for sale or service, then you must know that this is a huge amount of work.
If you really want to use the hose, use it at low pressure and with a cold engine. Cover the generator with plastic wrap to prevent water from entering the generator, engine computer, and air filter. Anything that is washed must be dried, ideally with compressed air. And then start the engine and wait until everything is dry.
How often should this be done?
Since washing is not a necessity for your engine, the decision is up to you.
If you don't know which parts are afraid of getting wet, then a professional cleaning of your engine will be the best solution.
