I used degreaser on my engine, now the parts around it have a yellow film stuck to them. How can I clean this?

Question

It's a holden barina. The degreaser was called Australian Export Degreaser by MMP Industrial Pty Ltd. The film has stuck to plastic pipes etc and looks like cream coloured paint. I followed the instructions, engine wasnt hot etc. I want to sell the car and now the engine looks wierd.

The film scrapes off very slowly with a blunt instrument. However, this is very time consuming given the extent of the film. Mineral Turps also doesn't work. Where the film has scrapped of the metal looks dull and scratched. It's going to look great to a potential buyer! No the container didn't say to cover up plastic and the guys at the store simply said spray on and wash off.

Also the guys at the auto store (Autobarn)have said they've never seen this happen (they weren't helpful). I called the manufacturer and their chemist said the degreaser is meant to be clear and not leave a film. The chemist said it shouldn't affect plastic and to use turps (also not very helpful given websites say to cover plastic and turps doesnt work!)

Answer 1

Take your car to Whale Car Wash or something like that were you pay for someone the wash your car. They can professionally stream clean your engine and remove the degreaser film.

Answer 2

Unless you can find any specific warning about using it around plastic I'd contact the manufacturer.

Answer 3

You were suppose to cover/protect all plastic and electrical components. I am not sure how to fix the damage. Did you try scrubbing.

Answer 4

It's hard, but you should ask an expert at Auto Zone!