6 Ways the Automated Car Wash is Making Your Car Look Worse
My first job was at a local high end car wash. My love for cars and detailing began there, but now I see the carwash as more of an enemy than anything. I’ll admit, it’s quick and convenient and I may or may not run my car through on a very rare occasion, but as a professional detailer it’s my job to help you understand what’s actually happening to your vehicle. Here are 6 ways the car wash is making your car look worse:
Scratches and Swirl Marks: Tunnel car washes use automated brushes and cloths that come into contact with your vehicle's paint. Unfortunately, these mechanical components can trap dirt and debris, leading to scratches and unsightly swirl marks on your car's surface. Over time, this can diminish the overall look and value of your vehicle. Next time your car is clean, take it out into the sun and really look at it. Those scratches and swirls you see are not supposed to be there, and they get worse each time you go through the wash. Want to get rid of them? Consider a paint correction service from a professional detailer.
Harsh Chemicals: Many tunnel car washes use strong chemical detergents to cut through dirt and grime quickly. While effective, these chemicals can be harsh on your car's paint and may cause it to fade or lose its luster over time.
Limited Customization: Tunnel car washes typically offer a one-size-fits-all approach, which may not address the specific cleaning needs of your vehicle. Certain areas, such as wheels, undercarriages, or intricate details, might not receive adequate attention, whereas our detailing packages would give specific attention to every area of the vehicle.
Potential for Damage: In tunnel car washes, there's a risk of your vehicle's exterior accessories, like antennas, side mirrors, or spoilers, getting damaged during the automated process. Sensitive electronic components, such as cameras and sensors, may also be at risk. Also, the carwash I worked at was very good at deflecting this damage back to the owner and not taking responsibility, meaning the owner was not compensated for the damages.
Missed debris: Tunnel car washes can miss certain types of debris, like bird droppings, sap, or tar, which require manual intervention for removal. Neglecting such contaminants can lead to permanent damage if not addressed promptly. A ceramic coating is a great way to keep these contaminants from eating into the clear coat and ruining the finish on your car.
They are filthy: The carwash I worked at was supposedly cleaned once a week. Even if they cleaned it at the end of every day it wouldnt be enough…let me explain. Let’s say theres a dirty old work truck in front of you at the carwash line. It goes through the wash and those brushes remove all of the mud, grime, traffic film, bird droppings, you name it, from the truck. Now those contaminants are stuck on the brushes and scrubbing media in the wash, and guess what, you’re next! Now all of that crud is being violently slapped across your car, and we are suppose to believe that it is cleaning? It’s like cleaning your floor with a towel and then drying off with the same dirty towel after a shower. It’s nonsensical!
Next time you want to go through the wash, think again! It might just cause irreversible damage to your car!
