How to Go Through a Car Wash

Automatic car washes offer a convenient and efficient way to keep your vehicle clean and polished. Whether you’ve never been through a car wash or have specific concerns like roof racks, understanding the automatic car wash process can make your experience smooth and stress-free. Here’s what you need to know about how to go through a car wash from start to finish.

How Car Washes Work

Most automatic car washes follow the same steps, using a combination of mechanics, water jets, different soaps, and brushes to get your vehicle clean as quickly and thoroughly as possible. Typical car wash steps include the following:

1. Pre-Wash: The first step usually includes a pre-rinse to remove loose dirt and debris from your car’s surface.
2. Soap Application: Specially formulated soaps are applied through high-pressure dispensers to further break down dirt and grime.
3. Scrub: Soft, vehicle-safe brushes use rotating arms to gently scrub your car’s exterior, removing stubborn dirt or hard-to-remove spots.
4. Rinse: Special water jets thoroughly remove soap and grime using high pressure.
5. Dry: High-powered air dryers blow air to dry your car, helping to minimize water spots and reveal a shiny exterior.

Some automatic car washes include optional add-ons like protective wax, additional scrubs, or tire shine options.

Prepare Your Car for an Excellent Wash

It’s essential to regularly maintain your car’s cleanliness, and automatic car washes make it easy to keep your vehicle looking its best. Knowing how to go through a car wash will help with this straightforward process. Here are some things to remember before you go:

• Remove loose items before entering the car wash. Think of antennas, exterior decorations, or removable roof racks. Make sure to roll up your windows, too!
• Choose the car wash option that suits your vehicle’s needs best. This choice may depend on your budget, available services, and desired cleaning power.
• Position your car at the entrance of the automatic car wash and follow instructions to approach correctly. Car wash facilities usually provide instructions through traffic lights or an attendant.
• Put your vehicle in neutral. With the car in neutral, the machinery smoothly moves it through the tunnel.
• Pay attention to instructions. The car wash may instruct you to stop, move forward, align your steering wheel, or apply brakes.
• Exit the car wash slowly. After the car wash, drive slowly out of the tunnel or bay to avoid potential hazards.

When you leave the car wash, it’s a good idea to take a moment to inspect your vehicle to look for any spots needing extra attention or a second scrub before you drive away.

FAQ: Going Through a Car Wash

Can I go through a car wash with a roof rack?

If you have a removable roof rack, you should remove it before washing your car. Automatic car washes gently cleanse your car and handle most standard accessories, including roof racks. If you want to go through a car wash with a roof rack, it’s wise to remove it.

Do I turn my car off in a car wash?

In most cases, turning your car off in a car wash is unnecessary. Automatic car washes are designed for vehicles that are running. However, some facilities require you to turn off your engine. This requirement is uncommon, and the facility should clearly communicate specific instructions before you start your car wash.

What do I need to know about how to enter a car wash?

To enter a car wash correctly, you’ll need to protect your car by proceeding slowly, observing signage and instructions posted at the facility. An attendant may be present to help guide you into the tunnel or car wash bay. Otherwise, follow designated arrows or traffic lights to guide you toward a smooth, safe entry.

Do I need to turn off my wipers before a car wash?

Yes, you should turn off your windshield wipers before you enter a car wash to keep them from getting damaged or causing obstructions during the car wash process. After the car wash, you can turn them back on if necessary.

Do I need to adjust the side mirrors for a car wash?

It’s perfectly fine to leave your side mirrors in their normal position before a car wash. Automatic car wash setups safely clean vehicles with side mirrors, even extended mirrors, so you don’t have to worry about damage or problems with your mirrors during the experience.

Get a Worry-Free Car Wash Today

Automatic car washes are an easy way to keep your car clean and help you take pride in your vehicle’s appearance. Following these steps should simplify the process so you can drive away feeling confident you know how to go through a car wash with ease.

Need a car wash soon? Take 5 is an expert in keeping your car clean. Check out all the different car wash options available at Take 5 today!