Yes, you can take a Tesla through a car wash, but it requires a bit of preparation to avoid potential damage. The safest and most recommended type is a touchless car wash, which uses high-pressure water and detergents instead of physical brushes. For automatic car washes with cloth or soft-touch brushes, you must first activate Car Wash Mode, a dedicated feature on your Tesla's touchscreen that prepares the vehicle by closing windows, folding mirrors, disabling automatic wipers, and locking the charge port.
The main risks in a standard automatic car wash involve the vehicle's specific design features. The large glass roof and sensitive camera systems are generally robust, but the real concerns are the automatic doors (on Model S and X) and the charge port door. If the charge port door is not securely locked via Car Wash Mode, the pressure from brushes can force it open, potentially causing damage. Similarly, the frameless windows on Models 3 and Y need to be sealed correctly to prevent water leaks, which Car Wash Mode also handles.
For the absolute safest clean, hand washing is always the best practice. If you do use an automatic tunnel wash, stick to reputable locations and avoid any with stiff, abrasive brushes. Following these simple steps ensures your Tesla gets clean without any unwanted surprises.
| Car Wash Type | Safety Level for Tesla | Key Preparation/Action |
|---|
| Touchless Automatic | Safest (Recommended) | No physical contact. Activate Car Wash Mode for optimal results. |
| Soft-Cloth Automatic | Use with Caution | Mandatory: Activate Car Wash Mode to fold mirrors, lock charge port. |
| Hand Wash (Self-Service) | Very Safe | Use a clean, soft mitt and pH-neutral car shampoo to protect the paint. |
| Brush/ Bristle Automatic | Not Recommended | High risk of fine scratches (swirl marks) on the paint. Avoid if possible. |
| Hand Wash (Professional) | Safest Overall | Best method for paint preservation and a thorough, controlled clean. |
