can pick up trucks go through car washes

[DelRylee]

Yes, most modern pickup trucks can safely go through an automatic car wash, but there are important considerations based on your truck's specific size and equipment. The primary concerns are the vehicle's physical dimensions and any aftermarket modifications that could be damaged. For a standard, stock-height half-ton truck like a Ford F-150 or Ram 1500, a standard touchless or soft-touch (cloth brush) car wash is generally safe.

The main factor is clearance—both height and width. Most commercial car washes are designed to accommodate vehicles up to 6 feet 7 inches (about 2 meters) in height. If your truck has a lift kit, oversized tires, or a tall roof-mounted light bar, it may exceed this limit and risk damage to the vehicle or the wash equipment. Always check your truck’s exact height, including any accessories.

Preparation is key. Before entering, retract any side mirrors if they are power-folding, ensure the antenna is retracted, and close all windows and the sunroof completely. For trucks with a tonneau cover, confirm it is securely fastened. If you have any loose items in the truck bed, like tools or debris, remove them to prevent them from becoming projectiles.

The type of car wash matters. A touchless wash uses high-pressure water and chemicals and is the safest bet for avoiding swirl marks on your paint. A soft-touch wash uses cloth strips and is generally safe for stock trucks but may carry a slight risk of minor scratches over time. If you have significant aftermarket modifications, a DIY hand wash is often the most recommended method to ensure no parts are damaged.

Here is a quick reference for common truck models and their compatibility:

Truck Model	Approx. Height (Stock)	Standard Car Wash Compatible?	Key Consideration
Ford F-150	77.6 inches	Yes	Check for retractable side mirrors.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500	75.6 inches	Yes	Ensure short, fixed antenna.
Ram 1500	77.6 inches	Yes	Standard size poses no issue.
Ford F-250 Super Duty	81.3 inches	Maybe	Exceeds some height limits; measure first.
Toyota Tacoma	70.6 inches	Yes	Compact size is well within limits.
GMC Sierra 1500 AT4	78.6 inches	Maybe	Factory lift may be too tall; verify clearance.

[DeLondyn]

My lifted F-150? No way. I learned the hard way. I took it through a touchless wash, and the top of the cab still scraped against the entrance guide rails. It was a nerve-wracking sound. Now I only hand-wash it. Even if it just fits, those big side mirrors feel vulnerable. For a totally stock truck, you’re probably fine, but if you’ve made any modifications, it’s not worth the risk. Stick to the DIY bays.

[MorganDella]

As a detailer, I advise caution. While the size might be okay, the brushes in soft-touch washes can introduce fine swirl marks into your clear coat, especially on black or dark-colored trucks. Touchless washes are safer for your paint but use stronger chemicals. The best practice for preserving your truck’s finish is a proper two-bucket hand wash. It gives you control to clean around modifications and protect the paint long-term.