How to Clean Your Car’s Exhausts
October 16, 2019
The exhaust is a very important car part as it is one of the key elements in providing the best engine performance for your vehicle. While parts like your local U-bolt are essential for suspension, your car’s exhaust system is designed to release emissions coming from the engine. Along with releasing engine emissions, an exhaust system also helps improve your car’s fuel efficiency and overall engine performance.
How do you clean a car exhaust?
A dirty car exhaust can cause your car to perform poorly, which is something you must always avoid to prevent further complications while driving. This is why cleaning your car exhausts on a regular basis is very important, as it ensures you have the best engine performance. Here are the steps you should follow to help you clean your car’s exhaust system:
Prepare your tools and equipment
Before you begin cleaning your car exhaust, it is important that you have the right tools and equipment to do the job. Here are some of the things you need to help you clean your car exhaust:
- Latex Gloves
- Liquid soap
- Bucket of water
- Dry and microfibre cloth
- Car polish
Remove the exhaust tips and headers
The first thing you need to do when you begin your cleaning process is to remove the exhaust tips and headers from your car. While it is possible to clean sections of your exhaust while still attached, removing the parts will ensure you can clean its entirety. Make sure all parts are organized in one place in your work area to make sure you don’t lose anything while cleaning.
Remove dirt with soap and water
Dirt and dust can clog or damage your exhaust, which is why it should be removed immediately. One of the first things that you need to clean up in your car’s exhaust is the dust and dirt present. These can easily be removed using a mixture of soap and water. After washing, dry up your exhaust and prepare for the next step.
Apply a degreaser
While soap and water can remove dirt and dust effectively, you need to clean your car’s exhaust system more thoroughly. Using a degreaser allows you to clean the inside and outside of your car’s exhaust. Apply a moderate amount of degreaser on a piece of dry cloth and remove any traces of carbon build-up, dirt, and rust.
Remove the degreaser and apply polish
After using the degreaser, the next step is to prepare your car exhaust for polishing. Remove the degreaser from the surface of your exhaust and apply the polish. Car polish does not only make your exhaust look clean and shiny, but it also provides a protective layer against dirt and scratches. Let the polish settle before wiping it off.
Remove the polish and wipe everything clean
After letting the polish set, you now have a protective topcoat on your exhaust. This means you can now wipe off the polish and wipe everything until it looks clean and brand new. You can now reattach the exhaust system into your car and have it run more smoothly than before.
Key Takeaway
Your car’s exhaust system is a critical part of your engine, which is why it is important to have it regularly cleaned. By following this guide, you can make sure your car’s exhausts are performing at their best.