Can I wash the car directly after running 100 kilometers?
4 Answers
You can wash the car directly after running 100 kilometers on the highway. Here is an introduction to the speed limits for two-lane and three-lane highways: 1. Two-lane highway: A two-lane highway means there are two lanes in the same direction. The speed range for the right lane is 60 to 100 kilometers per hour, and the speed range for the left lane is 100 to 120 kilometers per hour. 2. Three-lane highway: A three-lane highway means there are three lanes in the same direction. The speed range for the far-right lane is 60 to 90 kilometers per hour, the middle lane is 90 to 110 kilometers per hour, and the far-left lane is 110 to 120 kilometers per hour. The left lane is the overtaking lane, hence it has a higher speed limit.
As a long-distance driver, I would advise you never to wash your car immediately after driving 100 kilometers. When the car has just stopped, the engine, brake discs, and other components are still hot, possibly exceeding 100 degrees Celsius. Spraying cold water on them can cause thermal contraction and expansion, leading to deformation or even cracks in the parts. In severe cases, it may result in brake failure, compromising driving safety. I once witnessed a friend rushing to wash his car, only to end up with cracked brake discs, requiring a full system replacement—a real hassle. It’s best to wait 15 to 20 minutes for the car to cool down before washing. During this time, you can check the tires or clean dust off the seats for a thorough maintenance routine. Of course, if the weather is extremely hot, with even greater temperature differences, rushing is even riskier—using a fan to aid cooling is a better approach. When washing, start with lukewarm water and gradually transition to protect your car’s critical components—this is a must-know for daily driving. Regular maintenance helps avoid costly major repairs.
In my opinion, a car that has just completed a 100-kilometer drive needs to catch its breath before being washed. Washing it with cold water while it's still hot can easily cause thermal shock to components, especially the braking system, which may lead to deformation or increased noise. Having maintained cars for many years, I've found that waiting for about 10 minutes to let it cool down naturally is the safest approach. During this time, I don't rush to wash it but instead check the engine compartment for any signs of leaks. Additionally, if the car is too dirty and must be washed, I first blow off the surface dust to prevent sand particles from scratching the paint. After washing, I also check the lights and air conditioning system to ensure everything is functioning properly. These small habits can extend the vehicle's lifespan, and I often remind beginners not to rush—safety first is more important than anything else.
As a car owner who enjoys road trips, I avoid washing my car immediately after long drives. When the vehicle is hot, the brake discs are at high temperatures, and washing with cold water can easily cause malfunctions. I usually wait about 10 minutes after parking to let it cool down before washing. If the car is really dirty, I'll first wipe the exterior surface. Before washing, I also check the temperature to avoid damage from thermal shock. These simple steps keep things worry-free.
