Tips on the Best Engine Degreaser Methods of Application

A clean engine not only enhances the aesthetics of your vehicle but also contributes to its overall performance. A degreaser is the best engine cleaner for removing oil from the engine and is good for getting rid of heavy-duty grime and gunk buildup. These formulas are not your average all-purpose cleaners.

Achieving that showroom-ready look involves more than just choosing the best engine degreaser; the application method is key. In this guide, we'll delve into effective tips for applying engine degreasers, ensuring your ride sparkles from the inside out.

Table of Contents

1. Degreasing Engine
1. Preparation
2. Cold Engine
3. Rinse
4. Apply & Dwell
5. Protect & Shine
2. Degreasing Wheels

1. Key Takeaways

How to Degrease An Engine Bay

You don't need many accessories to detail an automotive engine bay. The best products to keep on hand for car engine degreasing and cleaning are brushes and a hose. A pressure washer may be too extreme on an engine bay, considering that there are sensitive areas that you shouldn't flood with water or pressure wash. Err on the side of caution and use a regular garden hose instead.

Prepare the Engine Bay

Start by covering sensitive components like the air intake, alternator, and electrical connections with plastic bags or waterproof covers. This precaution prevents water or cleaner degreasers from causing damage while you remove grease and dirt.

Cold Engine Application

For safety and optimal results, apply the degreaser when the engine is cold. A cold engine prevents the degreaser from evaporating too quickly, allowing it to penetrate and break down stubborn grease effectively.

Rinse the Surface

Before applying the degreaser, rinse the engine bay with water to remove loose dirt and debris. A garden hose or a gentle spray nozzle is sufficient for this step. This initial rinse ensures the degreaser can focus on breaking down toughest grime. Start washing at the top and working your way down, just like when you are using a car wash.

Apply Generously and Allow to Dwell

The best heavy-duty degreaser to clean an engine is a versatile, biodegradable degreaser, like Red Thunder®️ Biodegradable Degreaser. Follow product dilution instructions, according to the label. Begin by applying your degreaser to the rain tray area, all the way down the firewall, working in an H pattern.

Then, spray the front rain tray above the grill. Allow the solution to dwell according to label instructions, then follow it up with the hose, spraying again from top to bottom and in an H pattern. Be sure to clean up all residual degreaser from the engine compartment.

Protect and Shine

Follow your degreaser with a dressing to protect your engine surfaces. We like Aqua Bead™️ Advanced Silicone-Suspension Dressing, a water-based dressing that can be applied dry or wet. Apply your dressing across the top of the plastic surfaces. Then, close the hood and let the dressing wet out.

How to Use a Degreaser on Wheels

Always start at the top, which is the inner fender well, washing with your degreaser. If the wheel is very dirty, has baked-on grime, or has never been cleaned before, you might need to use a fender well brush to gently scrub and break up any heavy, hard-to-remove bits of dirt. Scrub inside every spoke and try to reach the back of each barrel.

After scrubbing add a bit more degreaser and allow it to dwell according to label instructions, breaking down any existing contamination. These formulas are typically fast-acting, so do not allow the degreaser to dry on your wheels. Finally, rinse away any remaining degreaser.

After you’ve degreased your wheels, you can follow up with your wheel and tire cleaner. We prefer a powerful, non-acid formula such as Complete™️ Wheel & Tire Cleaner. When degreasing and cleaning your wheels, always know whether the wheels you’re working on are coated, uncoated, or powder-coated. Likewise, always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Now that your wheels and tires are super clean, add a coat of dressing to protect and preserve the rubber of the tires. Choose the dressing (solvent or water-based) that is best for your specific needs. Dilute your dressing according to your gloss preferences. Using a foam, cotton, or microfiber applicator, apply the appropriate amount of dressing and allow it the appropriate amount of time to dry to avoid any tire sling. We recommend against using a spray bottle to avoid overspray.

Key Takeaways: Engine Degreasing is an Essential Step of Car Care

With these expert tips, you're now equipped to achieve the best engine degreaser results. Keep your vehicle's engine bay grime-free, ensuring a stunning and well-maintained ride that stands out on the road.