Hi,
whilst people can and do use high power washing wands at auto washes to clean engines, you can cause problems with your electrics and air filter assemblies etc etc, Even if you use a home high pressure washer eg Karcher washer at home, it can cause problems.
Ensuring your engine is switched off and COLD - A safe method is to wrap plastic bags and tie them off around the alternator, the starter motor (if you can get to it), and potentially your air filter unit and intake (check your user manual if you don't know where these are. Make sure your oil and automatic transmission oil dip-sticks are pushed in all the way. Ensure your power steering and brake fluid reservoir caps are closed tightly.
Buy a can of commercial engine wash / degreaser (pressurized type in a can) or even mix up some bulk engine cleaning wash / degreaser and then apply as per the engine wash manufacturers instructions. Wait the appropriate time (15 mins or more usually) and then gently hose off your engine and engine-bay area with a garden hose trigger nozzle. I suggest you do this in an area where the grease and oil that gets washed off doesn't run into a storm drain or perhaps stain your driveway.
Stubborn stains and oil may need to be brushed and more engine wash re-applied. Once you have finished washing, remove all plastic bags, check the engine bay is all clear of rags, brushes etc and then start up your car. Upon starting your engine, you may get some squealing from the wet fan belts but that will soon pass as the belts and engine area dry off. Have fun!
Cheers,
Steve
U can wash it off just be carful around the air intake and dont try to get water in the alternator.
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