Using an engine degreaser is the quickest and easiest way to clean accumulated oil and grime off your motor. It not only looks better and enhances resale value, but it can help you spot problems, such as oil and fluid leaks, before they develop into something serious.
You can also use it to clean tools, remove stains from driveways, and more. We’ve been looking at the things you’ll need to consider when buying an engine degreaser. We also have a few recommendations at the end. Top spot goes to 3D Grand Blast Engine Degreaser — a fast and effective product for cutting through oil and grease that also has environmentally friendly credentials.
What to know before you buy an engine degreaser
Solvent-based engine degreasers have been around for generations, and there’s no denying their effectiveness. Unfortunately, the vast majority are toxic and unpleasant to work with. In recent years there have been major advances in the formulation of water-based engine degreasers, and these are now common. They are generally safer for you and for the planet. Nevertheless, it is often difficult to find out what a product contains. If environmental credentials are a concern for you, you’ll need to check carefully.
Whatever the formulation, it’s likely to come in one of two forms: a spray-on liquid (which may foam) or a wipe-on gel. The latter tends to be more aggressive, though it’s important to follow instructions carefully, and leaving them on too long can cause problems. Some spray products come as aerosols, others as liquid to be poured into a spray bottle. Either way, they are convenient and easy to direct. However, they are seldom the miracle product they are advertised as, so you’ll probably need to get in there with a stiff brush, too.
Engine degreaser features
Anything that can clean heavy grease off your engine has the potential to damage more delicate surfaces like paint, plastics and electrical components. Exactly what a product is and isn’t safe for is an important part of your decision. The time a product is left on a surface before rinsing is also a key factor.
It’s not unusual to find that an engine degreaser can be diluted — usually with plain water — so you can vary the strength. This can make them very versatile with a range of uses outside the garage or workshop. Some are even rated by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) as safe for use in kitchens (on non-food surfaces). Of course, a diluted product also goes further, making them more economical.
Generally speaking, you’ll want to work in a well-ventilated area, as the smell from an engine degreaser is often unpleasant. In the case of solvent-based versions, it might actually be harmful. There are citrus-based formulas that smell better, but you should still read the instructions carefully and take any necessary precautions for personal safety.
Engine degreaser cost
The variety of container sizes and prices can make comparisons difficult and a little math may be required! You can buy spray cans and quart bottles for well under $10, but it’s only enough for spot cleaning. Larger quantities start at about $10 per gallon, but the best engine degreasers are more like $25 to $35 per gallon.
Engine degreaser FAQ
Are engine degreasers safe on plastics, rubber and paintwork?
A. It will depend on the product. It’s particularly important to read the instructions. You may need to remove or protect some components.
If the engine degreaser is biodegradable can I rinse it down the drain?
A. No. By the time you’ve cleaned your engine with it there will be all kinds of harmful contaminants and flushing it is illegal. Use absorbent matting or a drip tray to collect run-off and dispose of it at a waste-recycling center.
Which engine degreaser should I get?
Best of the best engine degreaser
3D Grand Blast Engine Degreaser: available at Amazon
Our take: An all-natural formula that offers rapid cleaning and won’t damage your paint.
What we like: Powerful cleaner that’s safe to use on metal, plastic and rubber. Can be diluted between 4:1 and 10:1 for different tasks. US-made, nontoxic and biodegradable.
What we dislike: May stain some surfaces if not rinsed properly.
Best bang for your buck engine degreaser
Chemical Guys Signature Series Orange Degreaser: available at Amazon
Our take: Good general-purpose degreaser can be used neat or diluted.
What we like: Fast-acting natural citrus-based formula. Convenient spray bottle for spot application. Can be diluted up to 20:1 with water thus providing great value for money.
What we dislike: Modest cleaning power. Some don’t like the smell.
Honorable mention engine degreaser
Gunk EB1 Original Engine Brite Degreaser, 12-Pack: available at Amazon
Our take: Highly effective formula from arguably the industry’s best-known brand.
What we like: Easy-to-use aerosol quickly cuts through heavy grease and grime. Cost effective for moderate areas. Doesn’t require engine warming first. US family-owned company.
What we dislike: Fire hazard if not properly rinsed. Harmful to electronics/sensors.
Bob Beacham is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money
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