LS1TECH - Camaro and Firebird Forum Discussion

Camaro and Firebird: How to Clean Your Engine Bay

Read on to learn how to quickly and safely clean the engine bay in your Camaro or Firebird.

By Charlie Gaston - February 26, 2016

This article applies to the 4th/5th Gen Camaro and the Pontiac Firebird (1990-present).

While you might find the prospect of cleaning your engine bay to be very scary, in truth, the job is pretty straightforward and easy. Also, the cost is generally quite low, which is always a plus for any DIY-er. In many cases, you will probably already own a quality degreasing product, as well as the scrubbing brush and protective materials you'll need to complete the job. If you do, then you'll be able to complete the job at no extra cost to you. However, you can typically find them online or at a local auto parts store at a total cost of $10 to $20.

Camaro and Firebird How to Clean Your Engine Bay

Materials Needed

  • Degreaser
  • Pressure washer or standard water hose
  • Microfiber cloth
  • Soft-bristled scrubbing brush
  • Plastic bag or plastic wraps (optional)

Step 1 – Protect electrical parts

Although not completely necessary, it's highly recommended that you protect any exposed electrical components from spray water before getting started. Strips of plastic bag or plastic wraps will suffice.

Wrapping electrical components to wash engine bay
Figure 1. Protect electrical components from unnecessary exposure to water and cleaning products.

Pro Tip

It's also recommended that you stuff a couple of old rags into your intake manifold before applying any water or cleaning products to your engine bay. This will protect your sensors and injectors while you wash your engine bay. For good measure, cover your alternator as well.

Step 2 – Rinse your engine bay

Lift surface contaminants from your engine block by gently spraying the entire surface area with a pressure (or non-pressure) washer, or by simply rinsing the area with a spray bottle filled with water. You may also use a wet microfiber cloth to wipe away any visible surface stains, dirt and other road contaminants. Any rinsing method with care will suffice at this point.

using pressure washer to clean engine bay
Figure 2. Use a pressure washer to rinse your engine bay.

Pro Tip

A standard water hose with your thumb covering a portion of the spout will also suffice for this DIY project.

Step 3 – Apply a degreaser

Apply an engine cleaner or degreaser product directly to your engine block. We recommend using a top-of-the-line product such as Simple Green or Gunk EB1 Engine Brite Heave Duty Engine Degreaser. Meguiar's also offers a great line of engine degreaser products and detailing kits. Allow the product to activate as well as lift dirt, grime and corrosion from your engine block completely (approximately 15 to 20 seconds or up to 2 minutes), and then scrub the entire area using a soft-bristled scrubbing brush, gently lifting away contaminants as you go. Rinse with a pressure washer or standard water hose, and repeat as needed.

Pro Tip

Some Camaro and Firebird owners have found diluting products like Simple Green can be helpful in preventing any possible corrosion to your engine bay.

Step 4 – Dry your engine bay

There are two main options here: allow your engine bay to dry naturally or use compressed air. Either method is fine.

Step 5 – Hose down your engine bay one last time

Give your engine bay one final hose down, checking for any missed spots. Tackle those areas, as needed. Then dry your engine bay. Grab a couple of rags and go over your entire engine bay by hand one final time. Start your Camaro or Firebird once your engine is completely dry.

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