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Using cable ties on cars: engine bay and wiring tips

3 min read · Cable ties, hoses and washers

Cable ties are one of the handiest things in a car toolbox: wiring for lights and accessories, loose hoses, trailer plugs and looms that have dropped. A few habits make the job last longer and look neater.

Use black UV-stabilised ties outdoors

Sunlight breaks down plain nylon over time. Black UV-stabilised ties are the usual choice for anything outside the cabin, including the engine bay, chassis and roof racks. See black UV cable ties.

Keep away from heat

Nylon ties have a temperature limit, and the hottest parts of the engine bay (exhaust manifolds, turbos, exhaust pipes) are beyond it. Route wiring and ties well away from them, and check the rating on any tie you use near heat.

Avoid sharp edges and moving parts

Do not let a tie or the wiring it holds rub on a sharp edge, and keep looms clear of the steering, belts and fans. Leave a little slack where wiring crosses from the body to the engine, which moves on its mounts.

Fixing to the body

Where there is no rail to tie to, use a push type cable tie that locks into a panel hole, or a mountable tie that screws on. For small hoses, a tie can also secure a hose joiner.

Finishing

Pull the tie snug, not crushing. Trim the tail flush with cutters or a tie tool so there is no sharp end to cut hands later.

What size?

Narrow ties for light wiring, medium for looms and hoses, wide for heavy bundles. Our cable tie sizes guide explains it.

Common car jobs

• Tidying a dash cam, phone charger or UHF cable
• Securing trailer plug and tail light wiring
• Holding a loom away from the exhaust or steering
• Fixing spare wheel covers, roof rack loads or tarps
• Holding a washer or vacuum hose in place

Spacing

For wiring, a tie every 150 to 300 mm keeps a loom neat without strain. Add one either side of any bend, and one where the wiring passes through a grommet.

Removing old ties safely

Cut the tie at the head with side cutters or flush cutters, away from the wiring. Do not use a knife pulled towards the wiring.

Choosing a tie for the job

See the full list of widths and lengths in our cable tie size guide, and use push-mount cable ties where there is a hole but nothing to tie to.

Frequently asked questions

Are black cable ties UV resistant?

Black UV-stabilised ties are made for outdoor use and handle sunlight better than natural nylon. Check the product description for the tie you buy.

Can cable ties go near the exhaust?

No. Keep nylon ties well away from exhaust manifolds, turbos and exhaust pipes.

Sizes and fitting steps in our guides are general. Check your vehicle's manual for anything specific to your car. Questions? Call 0499 001004.