Oil, grease, and grime build up fast on engines, tools, wheels, and garage surfaces. If left unchecked, they not only look bad but can also cause long-term wear and even performance issues. The solution is a high-quality automotive degreaser spray. A good degreaser cuts through grease quickly, rinses away clean, and is safe for metals, plastics, and painted surfaces. But with so many options, which one should you trust? In this guide, we’ll review the best automotive degreaser sprays of 2025 to help you keep your car and tools spotless.
Quick Picks
- Best Overall: Gunk Original Engine Degreaser Spray – Trusted for decades with powerful cleaning action.
- Best Budget: SuperClean Foaming Degreaser Spray – Affordable, versatile, and tough on grease.
- Best Premium: Simple Green Pro HD Heavy Duty Cleaner – Professional-grade cleaning that’s biodegradable and safe.
Buyer’s Guide: What to Look for in an Automotive Degreaser Spray
Before you buy, here are the key factors to consider:
- Cleaning Power: Heavy-duty degreasers cut through thick oil and sludge fast.
- Surface Safety: Look for formulas safe for painted, plastic, and rubber components.
- Ease of Application: Aerosol sprays and foaming triggers help cling to vertical surfaces.
- Biodegradability: Environmentally friendly options are safer for you and easier to rinse.
- Versatility: Some degreasers also work on tools, floors, and garage equipment.
- Residue: Good degreasers rinse off clean without leaving oily films.
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Gunk Original Engine Degreaser Spray – Best Overall
Who It’s For: Car owners who want a powerful, reliable degreaser for engines and undercarriages.
- Key Benefits: Fast-acting formula, aerosol spray for easy application, removes years of grime.
- Pros: Trusted brand, extremely effective, affordable.
- Cons: Strong fumes, not the most eco-friendly.
Verdict: A go-to classic for deep engine cleaning. Get it here.
2. SuperClean Foaming Degreaser Spray – Best Budget
Who It’s For: Budget-conscious users who want a strong, versatile degreaser.
- Key Benefits: Foaming action clings to surfaces, works on engines, wheels, and garage floors.
- Pros: Affordable, versatile, strong cleaner.
- Cons: Can be harsh on delicate plastics if not rinsed quickly.
Verdict: A tough, budget-friendly degreaser for all-around use. Get it here.
3. Simple Green Pro HD Heavy Duty Cleaner – Best Premium
Who It’s For: Professionals and DIYers who want a safe, non-toxic, but powerful degreaser.
- Key Benefits: Biodegradable formula, safe on multiple surfaces, industrial-strength cleaning.
- Pros: Eco-friendly, versatile, effective on engines and tools.
- Cons: Slightly more expensive than traditional degreasers.
Verdict: A premium option that combines safety and strength. Get it here.
4. Chemical Guys Signature Series Orange Degreaser
Pros: Citrus-based cleaner, pleasant smell, effective on grease and dirt.
Cons: Requires dilution for heavy jobs.
Verdict: Great for lighter cleaning and maintenance. Get it here.
5. WD-40 Specialist Industrial-Strength Degreaser
Pros: Solvent-based, fast-acting, great for tools and machinery.
Cons: Strong odor, not eco-friendly.
Verdict: A strong industrial degreaser for heavy-duty use. Get it here.
6. Purple Power Industrial Strength Degreaser
Pros: Concentrated, works on engines, tires, and garage surfaces.
Cons: Can be too strong for delicate finishes.
Verdict: A solid choice for garages and shops with heavy grime. Get it here.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Formula | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gunk Original Engine Degreaser | Engines & Undercarriages | Solvent-Based | Check Price |
| SuperClean Foaming Spray | Wheels, Engines, Floors | Foaming Degreaser | Check Price |
| Simple Green Pro HD | Eco-Friendly All-Purpose | Water-Based | Check Price |
| Chemical Guys Orange | Light Cleaning | Citrus-Based | Check Price |
| WD-40 Specialist Degreaser | Heavy Machinery | Solvent-Based | Check Price |
| Purple Power Degreaser | Engines, Tires, Shops | Concentrated | Check Price |
FAQ
1. Can I use engine degreaser on painted surfaces?
Most heavy-duty degreasers should be kept away from painted areas unless specified safe. Always check the label.
2. Do I need to rinse after using degreaser spray?
Yes. Rinsing removes chemical residue and ensures grease and dirt are fully washed away.
3. Are degreaser sprays safe for plastic and rubber?
Some are, but solvent-based degreasers can damage plastics and rubber. Water-based options are safer.
4. How often should I degrease my engine?
For most vehicles, every 6–12 months is sufficient, unless you drive in harsh or dirty conditions.
Conclusion
The best automotive degreaser spray will cut through grease and grime quickly, saving you hours of scrubbing. If you want a proven solution, Gunk Engine Degreaser is the classic choice. For budget buyers, SuperClean Foaming Spray offers excellent value. And for a premium eco-friendly option, Simple Green Pro HD is safe and highly effective. With the right degreaser, your engine, tools, and garage will stay cleaner and last longer.