Let’s face it: our cars’ engines get dirty. They’re hardworking machines that are continually exposed to grit, grime, oil, heat, moisture, and road salt—and while we may be diligent about regular maintenance, keeping our engines clean isn’t always our first priority.

Here are some good reasons that keeping your vehicle’s engine clean makes good sense.

• Make problems easier to diagnose
  Ever popped the hood, noticed an oil stain or suspicious white deposit and wondered, “Was that there last time?” Routine engine cleaning can help you spot small problems when they arise—and before they become major headaches. Leaks, cracks, rust, and belt wear are all easer to spot when your engine is clean.
• Minimize corrosion
  Corrosion s a common problem whenever certain metals are exposed to humid air, rain or snow. One of the most obvious places you’ll see it is on your car’s battery terminals, but t can also affect other parts like spark plugs, which can impede your car’s performance. Cleaning your engine can remove these deposts and extend engine life.
• Decrease the chances for debris-related problems
  Road debris can accumulate easily in small spaces, trapping heat and dirt and reducing cooling ability. When your engine runs at temps hotter than recommended, you risk shortening its life expectancy and impeding performance. Debris trapped in corners and crevices can also attract moisture that can speed corrosion, rust, and other damage. Getting ahead of it now can save you money and headaches later.
• Prevent build-up of potentially hazardous combustibles
  Dry leaves, heavy oil deposits, and a dry engine can lead to fiery disaster—either on the road or in the garage. A thorough engine cleaning will remove those combustibles from your engine compartment and decrease your fire risk.
• Improve your engine’s appearance
  Maybe you don’t drive a Shelby Cobra or other high-end show car. But keeping your engine clean also just looks good and shows others you care about your car.
• Boost resale value
  f you’re looking to sell your vehicle, chances are that potential buyers will want to do more than kick the tires. A clean engine not only gives car shoppers a clear view of what they’ll be getting, it also allows them that the car was well cared for during your ownership.

Your local auto supply retailer can recommend the best products you need to keep your engine, sparks, and battery terminals clean. We hope these tips help you keep your engine running smoothly and safely.