No, you should not take a Jeep with the Sky One-Touch power top through an automatic car wash. Jeep's official owner's manual explicitly advises against it. The high-pressure jets, harsh bristles, and aggressive track systems of most automatic car washes can damage the top's fabric, compromise its weather seals, and potentially cause mechanical issues with the sliding mechanism. Hand washing is the only recommended method to preserve the top's functionality and appearance.
The primary risk involves the seals and mechanism. The Sky One-Touch is a complex power-retractable roof with multiple seals designed to keep water out. The intense, concentrated water pressure in a tunnel wash can force water past these seals, leading to leaks. Furthermore, the lateral pressure from overhead brushes or cloth strips can strain the top's frame and motor. Over time, this can lead to misalignment, unusual noises, or complete failure of the power mechanism.
If a hand wash is absolutely impossible, a touchless automatic car wash is a less risky, though still not recommended, alternative. These washes use only high-pressure water and detergents, eliminating the risk of physical abrasion. However, you must ensure the water jets are not aimed directly at the top's seals for an extended period. Even in a touchless wash, there is a non-zero risk of forcing water inside.
The best practice is a simple two-bucket hand wash. This gives you complete control over the pressure and cleaning agents used on the delicate fabric top. It also allows you to properly use a fabric-top-specific cleaner and a waterproofer/UV protectant, which are essential for maintaining the top’s condition and preventing fading or staining.
| Car Wash Type | Risk Level for Sky One-Touch Top | Primary Concern |
|---|
| Automatic (Touch / Bristles) | Very High | Physical abrasion, seal damage, mechanism strain |
| Automatic (Touchless) | Moderate | High-pressure water forcing past seals |
| Hand Wash | Very Low / Recommended | Controlled, gentle cleaning |
