Many drivers seldom venture beneath the car bonnet. Beyond topping up the screen wash and checking the oil there’s nothing its best left alone, right? Regular attention to your engine bay as part of your regular car care regime is well worth doing, though, and could even save you from costly repairs.
While it won’t need cleaning every time you wash the paint work, a quick inspection of the engine bay (including all fluid levels) every couple of weeks can help you spot any problems early. Ensure the engine is cold before inspection. Do you have to regularly top up fluids? You may have a leak somewhere. Sludge in the coolant header tank or in the oil could indicate a failed head gasket. Regular checks make it easier to spot when something’s amiss.
A clean and tidy engine bay makes checks easier. Remove any leaves or debris, particularly around grills and air intakes as blockages could cause problems. When washing the engine bay, be careful not to direct water into the electrics or air intake. Make sure you’re not planning a journey before the engine bay has dried out.