Washing your car can be a big old pain in the behind.
We all know we should do it… it protects the paintwork, increases resale value over the life of the car and just makes for a more pleasant ride. But who wants to spend their Sunday morning washing a car?
So, off to the carwash you go, completely unaware that it is fraught with danger! Hairline scratches and swirl marks have been on the increase in the last few years and it’s largely due to people washing cars at local car washes.
You see, many car washes use the same sponges and rags over and over and over again. This means dirt and debris from other cars gets left on the sponge and finds its way onto your car and this is when you get those nasty swirls and scratches. While the staff are probably aware of good car wash practice, they often look for the cheapest way possible to remain competitive.
So what’s the solution? Be very diligent in finding a very good car wash, or avoid them entirely.
CAR WASH DO’S & DON’TS
If you’re sticking to the car wash, here’s what you need to be aware of…
DO:
- Ask around. A referral from someone who has had a good experience and a good result is a great start.
- At the car wash look out for dirty rags and sponges. Ask them if they’re changed with every vehicle or how often they’re replaced. If they won’t give you a reasonable answer, you can see dirty sponges and rags or the environment itself is dirty, drive straight out of there.
- Bring your own sponges. There’s nothing wrong with taking your new clean sponge to the car wash and requesting they use yours. If they’re not happy with this, leave.
- Go early or late in the day to avoid harsh direct sunlight. Cold or tepid water placed on hot metal is not good for your car’s paint work.
- Use a smaller, professional car detailer versus a large, production-line car wash. Car detailers will charge a little more, but they are much more likely to not only do a better job, but to use good washing practices, such as clean sponges and the two-bucket wash method.
DON’T
- Go to charity car wash days. Sorry, but those kids could be using anything to wash your car.
- Use the drive throughs that use brushes or cloths. Some of the older-style car washes still use the spinning brushes, which are notorious for leaving scratches. The softer cloth variety is better, but still not good. If you must use a drive through, look out for a brushless water-only wash. This won’t give you a great result, but it is good for a quick, easy clean without the damage. Limit these to only once in awhile, rather than relying on them for every wash.
- Pay extra for waxes and polishes (unless using a professional detailer). Most often these products are low quality and overpriced.
DIY DO’S & DON’TS
If I’ve convinced you to do it yourself….
DO:
- Wash your car on an overcast day or just after dawn/before sunset when the sun is less harsh.
- Wash bird poo off as soon as it happens. Bird poo contains acids that strip paint work. Use a hose and soft cloth as soon as you can.
- If you’re a weekend driver and have to park on a tree-lined street, then invest in a car cover.
- If you drop your sponge then rinse well — really, really well. If you’ve dropped it somewhere particularly dirty, then you’re probably up for a new sponge.
DON’T
- Pressure wash your engine. A dirty engine that works is better than a clean one that doesn’t. Pressure washing your engine forces streams of water into rubber seals and around sensitive electronic components. If you’re concerned about the cleanliness of your engine, you can ask your mechanic to degrease it during your next service. They will know the correct techniques and use the correct products.
- Use household cleaning products. These products are designed for a different purpose and can be too harsh on your car’s paint.
Everyone wants a shiny, clean car. Cheap car washes are popping up everywhere but most of them are doing more damage than good. Whether you go to a car wash or do it yourself, follow the do’s and don’ts to ensure you get the best result every time.
For more auto related tips and tricks, check out the Blue Toro Blog.
