The key to a successful car wash is proper preparation to avoid damaging your vehicle. Start by removing any loose items from the exterior like antenna toppers or bike racks. Close all windows and sunroofs completely. If you're using an automatic brushless (touchless) car wash, you're generally safe for most cars. However, if you're entering a tunnel wash with cloth brushes, be aware that these can potentially introduce fine scratches, or "swirl marks," into your car's clear coat over time. For vehicles with special paint like matte finishes, a touchless wash is the only safe automated option.
After you've prepped the car, drive forward carefully onto the track or follow the attendant's instructions. Place your vehicle in neutral, take your foot off the brake (for in-bay automatics), and keep your hands off the steering wheel. The machinery will guide your car through. It is critical to turn off features like automatic wipers and ensure the automatic parking brake does not engage. Once the wash is complete, you can drive away, but for a spot-free finish, it's best to open the doors and wipe down the door jambs and any remaining water droplets on the body with a clean microfiber towel.
For a quick visual guide, here are the core steps and considerations:
| Preparation Step | Why It's Important | Best For |
|---|
| Remove exterior accessories | Prevents damage to car and wash equipment | All wash types |
| Close windows/sunroof | Prevents interior flooding | All wash types |
| Choose touchless wash | Minimizes risk of swirl marks on paint | New cars, delicate paint jobs |
| Choose soft-touch wash | More effective at removing heavy dirt | Older vehicles, less concern for minor scratches |
| Fold in side mirrors | Prevents potential damage (if automatic) | Most modern cars (check manual) |
| Disable auto wipers | Prevents wipers from activating during wash | Vehicles with rain-sensing wipers |
| Use spot-free rinse | Prevents water spots from forming after drying | Areas with hard water |
