No, it is not advisable to get a car wash with a cracked window. The primary risk is that high-pressure water and harsh chemicals can easily seep through the crack, damaging the window's electrical components and the interior of your door panel. This can lead to costly repairs, such as replacing the window motor or regulator, and create a breeding ground for mold and mildew. The crack can also worsen significantly from the pressure and temperature changes.
The severity of the risk depends on two main factors: the type of crack and the type of car wash.
| Car Wash Type | Risk Level for a Cracked Window | Primary Concerns |
|---|
| Touchless Automatic | Moderate to High | High-pressure water jets can force water and soap directly into the crack. |
| Soft-Cloth/Friction Automatic | High | Rolling brushes can catch on the crack's edges, potentially causing it to spiderweb. |
| Self-Service Bay | Low (if done carefully) | You have direct control to avoid spraying the cracked area with the high-pressure wand. |
| Hand Wash | Low | You or the attendant can carefully wash around the damaged window. |
If you must wash the car, a hand wash is your safest bet. Be explicit about the crack and ask the attendant to avoid spraying directly at it. For a self-service bay, use a low-pressure setting and keep the spray wand well away from the window. The best course of action, however, is to get the crack repaired first. Many auto glass specialists offer mobile repair services that can fix small cracks quickly and inexpensively, preventing a minor issue from becoming a major problem.
