I have a question regarding car washes. Someone at the dealership made it seem like it would be bad to take my '06 OBP WRX through a car wash. They said something to my wife when she mentioned taking it through said wash. They also never gave a reason or any information, but instead made it seem like it was taboo.

Is there a reason to stay out of car washes? All car washes, or are the "touchless" ones okay? I have a black car that gets dirty quickly, and I don't always have the time to hand wash it. I have not taken it through a car wash yet, but I would like to know if it is even an option.

Thanks for the feedback,
CZ

 

'Touchless' automatic car washes are okay, but still may not get the body or wheels as clean as a loving hand job.

Seriously, I try to wash my car by hand but when it's too hot out I do take it to a nearby car wash that uses high pressure sprayers and forced air drying. You also have the alternative of car wash businesses that are in between automatic car washes and professional detailing.

--
0==WW==0
"…axles of evil…" - george w. bush

 

The automatic car washes use a very strong soap that can break down the wax on your car, and if they have brushes that will put swirls in the paint and swirls are never good.
From time to time they are alright, just make sure they are touchless and use the high power spray, not the brushes.

 

I try to hand wash my car whenever I can, but I live in an apartment complex with no place to do it. I have to go over to my parents just to use their driveway. Also, I am in Oregon and it rains a lot, so it sucks to put all that effort into hand washing just to have it rain the next day.

All well, I think I will head over to see my parents after work today and wash my car by hand cause it really needs it.

Thanks,
CZ