How to avoid damaging your car at the car wash?

Washing your car is not just a way to give it a clean and shiny look, but also an important part of care that helps preserve the paintwork. However, the wrong approach to washing, whether manual or automatic, can lead to scratches, streaks and even damage to the body. To avoid trouble, it is important to know the basic rules of safe washing. You can also transform your car and add expressiveness to it using tuning accessories, a large selection of which you will find in our product catalog.

Choosing the right place and time

• Avoid direct sunlight: Washing in the hot sun causes the water and detergent to dry out quickly, leaving streaks and stains on the bodywork. Choose shade or a cool time of day.
• Cool the car: If the car has been sitting in the sun for a long time, let it cool down before washing to avoid temperature shock to the LFP.

Hand washing: the key to safety

Hand washing is considered the safest, but there are nuances here too.

• Pre-rinse: Be sure to remove any loose dirt and grit with a strong jet of water. This will prevent scratches from forming when the sponge comes into contact with the surface.
• Use two buckets: One bucket contains clean water with shampoo, the other bucket contains clean water to rinse the sponge. This will prevent dirt from transferring to the bodywork.
• The right products and tools: Use car shampoo (not dish soap!), a soft microfiber mitt or sponge. Wash from top to bottom, gently, without applying too much pressure.
• Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the shampoo completely to avoid streaks and stains.
• Drying Properly: Use a clean, soft microfiber towel to dry. Blot, do not rub.

Automatic car washes: risks and precautions

Automatic car washes save time, but can be more aggressive.

• Inspect the brushes: Before entering, make sure the car wash brushes are clean and free of large particles of dirt.
• Remove exterior items: Fold mirrors, remove antenna, roof rack if possible.
• Choose a touchless car wash: If there is such an option, it minimizes the risk of scratches due to the lack of direct contact of the brushes with the body.
• Avoid old sinks: Worn-out equipment can damage the LFP.

Following these simple rules will help keep your car in perfect condition and avoid annoying damage at the car wash.