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I thought this was interesting. The owner's manual for my '92 actually has instructions for cleaning the engine compartment:
"The engine compartment should be cleaned with an engine detergent and then hosed with hot water. Cover the distributor and brake master cylinder reservoir and air inlet opening before washing the engine.
NOTE: If you use a high-pressure hose, cover the distributor, alternator, starter motor, voltage regulator, throttle cable and brake master cylinder reservoir and air inlet."
So engine cleaning is actually recommended by SAAB. I have done this with all of my previous cars (carefully) but I have never seen it suggested by any other manufacturer.
Some tips: Get some areosol engine degreaser at your local auto parts store, usually made by STP or "Gunk" the stuff is very effective at loosening grime. Don't get it on you, though, we are talking serious chemicals here!
Use the high pressure gun at the car wash if your car is really bad, (heck, I use it even if it's not) just don't point it at the brake booster, fuel injector or any major electrical units. You can rinse most of these sensative areas with low pressure, but be extra careful around the distributor and alternator.
Bring plastic shopping bags to the car wash to cover the sensitive stuff (esp. distributor, master cyl reservoir and air inlet). I would find it hard to cover everything SAAB mentions, but be careful not to get these areas too wet.
Important: Your car should not be too hot, do not do this after a long drive, and let the car cool a bit beforehand.
If you just use the automatic drivethrough: Drive slowly over the undercar sprayer and stop when it is under the engine. You get your money's worth this way!
As previously mentioned, you will find that with a clean engine it is much easier and more enjoyable to work on your car, this is especially nice when tracking down fluid leaks. Most (but not all!) mechanics prefer to work in a clean engine compartment and this (may) be reflected in your bills. Remember, a clean car is a happy car!
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