
Yes, most modern electric vehicles (EVs) are perfectly safe to go through an automatic car wash. Manufacturers design EVs to withstand water exposure, sealing high-voltage components like the battery pack and electric motor to rigorous IP67 standards, meaning they are dust-tight and can be immersed in water. The main considerations are the same as for any car: avoiding potential damage to external parts like the paint, mirrors, or charging port.
The most critical step is to ensure the charging port door is fully closed and latched. While it has a weather seal, it's the most obvious point of entry for high-pressure water. Most EVs have a locking mechanism that activates when the vehicle is off or in wash mode. Speaking of which, some models, like certain Teslas, feature a dedicated "Car Wash Mode." This function automatically closes windows, folds in mirrors, disables windshield wipers, and locks the charging port to prevent any accidental issues.
You should avoid brush-style car washes if you are concerned about swirl marks on your paint. Touchless or "brushless" car washes are a safer bet for preserving your car's finish. Similarly, while the undercarriage is well-protected, an undercarriage wash spray is generally harmless and can help rinse off road salt. The key takeaway is that the fear of electrocution or short-circuiting in a car wash is a myth; your EV is built to handle it.
| EV Car Wash Consideration | Recommendation | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Charging Port | Ensure it is firmly closed before entering. | Prevents water from contacting electrical connectors. |
| Car Wash Mode | Activate it if your vehicle has this feature. | Automatically secures sensitive components. |
| Wash Type | Prefer touchless or soft-cloth over abrasive brushes. | Minimizes risk of scratches and swirl marks on paint. |
| High-Pressure Jets | Direct jets away from seams of doors/windows. | While seals are strong, avoiding direct blasts is prudent. |
| Undercarriage Wash | It is safe and recommended in winter. | Helps remove corrosive road salt without harming the battery shield. |


