Are Car Washes Bad for Paint?

July 3rd, 2020 by Fix Auto USA

You want your car to look pristine year-round. So, you may consider going to a car wash periodically to ensure your vehicle is cleaned up and appears in top condition.

Ultimately, the car wash you choose may impact your vehicle’s paint. If you examine your car wash options closely, however, you can determine if a particular car wash is right for you.

Are Car Washes Bad for Paint: Factors to Consider

Some car washes employ automotive professionals who dedicate time and energy to clean your vehicle by hand. These professionals work diligently to remove dirt, dust, and other debris from your car’s exterior. In doing so, they help your vehicle maintain a beautiful appearance.

For those who choose car washes that employ professionals to clean their vehicles, it is unlikely to damage the paint. These professionals recognize the importance of using sufficient water to clean a car’s exterior, and they know not to clean a car in direct sunlight. They also understand that certain types of soap can remove the protective wax from a car’s exterior and leave a chalky residue; as such, they use safe, effective soap to clean your car’s exterior without damaging the paint.

Comparatively, touchless car washes are often viable alternatives to car washes performed by hand. Touchless car washes are easy and convenient, and they usually allow you to remain in your car and have its exterior cleaned in just minutes.

Although touchless car washes are fast and seamless, they may inadvertently damage your vehicle’s paint.

Are Touchless Car Washes Bad for Paint?

Not all touchless car washes are bad for your vehicle’s paint, but some use brushes that are not properly maintained. In these instances, a car wash brush can scratch paint and damage your vehicle’s exterior.

In addition to potential scratches, some touchless car washes use harsh acids that can eat away at your car’s paint. They may use high-pressure hoses to help eliminate the acids when you exit, but even these hoses are not guaranteed to remove these acids.  

Is a Car Wash Safe for Paint?

A car wash can help you enhance your vehicle’s appearance without damaging its exterior. In fact, there are many things you can do to find a car wash that can safely and effectively clean your car, such as:

• Perform research.

  Learn how a car wash cleans vehicles. If the car wash uses soaps that could damage your car’s exterior, it should be avoided.

• Request customer referrals.

  Find out what past clients are saying about a car wash. If customers have frequently dealt with paint damage after going to a car wash, you should look elsewhere for assistance.

• Request a wax job.

  Along with getting your car cleaned, ask a car wash to apply a wax coat to your vehicle. Wax acts as a protectant, and it adds a layer to help reduce the risk of fading caused by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.

In the event that you notice damage to your car after you visit a car wash, report the issue immediately. That way, you can work with the car wash to address the problem right away.

Choose Fix Auto for Car Repairs

If you notice paint damage to your car, the team at Fix Auto can help. Our automotive professionals are available to help you address any dents or dings that hamper your car’s appearance. They can also provide tips and recommendations, so you can keep your vehicle looking great now and in the future. To learn more or to schedule a service appointment, please contact us online or call us today at 1-800-INFO-FIX.

 

This blog post was contributed by Fix Auto Black Lake a leading industry expert and collision repair shop servicing customers in Black Lake and neighborhood around the south of Budd Inlet.