Cleaning the Engine (Washing the Engine)

Cleaning the engine (washing the engine)

Notes on washing the engine

DANGER: Hot water under high pressure!
^ Risk of damage for engine components.
^ Incoming washer-fluid in electric components.
--> Only wash the engine when it is cold.
--> Only wash the engine when engine is switched off (electric shock through the ignition system).
--> Protect the oxygen sensor connectors from moisture.
--> Maintain a minimum clearance of 50 cm between the cleaning lance and engine component.
--> Protect the brake fluid reservoir from moisture.

Note:
^ The engine should be washed only if this is absolutely essential for repair work.
^ Components sensitive to moisture must be adequately protected. Cover them, if necessary.
^ Cleaning agents or water should never be applied directly to components that are sensitive to moisture, such as electric connectors.
^ When using high-pressure cleaning apparatus, maintain a minimum clearance of 50 cm between the cleaning lance and the engine component.
^ Never wash the engine when the engine is warm.
^ For environmental reasons, the engine may only be washed in workshops in which oils are separated from waste water.

1. Open the bonnet.
2. Protect components sensitive to moisture, possibly by covering them with plastic sheeting. Oxygen sensor connectors must not get wet.
3. Remove any maintenance labels (e.g. oil change schedule tag) and replace after the work is completed.
4. Pre-clean very dirty engines with pure water.
5. Spray engine components to be cleaned with an appropriate engine cleaning agent and allow it to work in.
6. Clean the engine. Ensure that a minimum clearance of 50 cm is maintained between the cleaning lance and engine component. The water temperature must not exceed 80°C. Remove persistent dirt with a non-abrasive sponge.
7. Moving components in the engine compartment, such as the hook for the bonnet, must be re-greased.
8. Carry out a test drive after washing the engine.