Will a car wash scratch my car?
It’s a question as old as automatic car washes themselves and we get this question a lot—because the rumor game is pretty strong with this one.
In this session of Car wash myth busting, we’re discussing some common myths surrounding automatic car washes.
We, at Soapy Shark, understand your concerns with answers that automatically clear your mind.
Types of Car Wash
When it comes to cleaning your prized vehicles, not all car washes are created equal.
There are several types you might encounter:
- Manual Car Wash – Where the good old-fashioned elbow grease meets soap and water. You can do it yourself or find a service station that does it manually.
- Automatic Car Wash – Where machines do all the work while you sit back and enjoy the ride.
- Touchless Car Washes – For those who prefer a hands-off approach, these use high-pressure water jets and detergents, ensuring that nothing but water and soap touches your car.
While each type has its benefits, automatic car washes are often the subject of myths concerning vehicle safety. Let’s explore why these misconceptions persist and how modern automatic car washes ensure the safety and care of your vehicle.
Are Automatic Car Washes Bad for Your Car?
The simple answer is no. Automatic car washes do not damage your car or car paint. Despite this, some people still hold reservations, often due to misconceptions or experiences with outdated or poorly maintained facilities.
Let’s explore why automatic car washes might get a bad reputation and how modern car washes like Soapy Shark address these concerns:
- Old Equipment: One major reason automatic car washes might be feared is the use of old, poorly maintained equipment. Older car wash systems might have used abrasive brushes that could scratch paint, giving rise to the myth that all car washes are harmful.
- Improper Maintenance: Car washes that do not regularly maintain and clean their equipment can inadvertently cause damage. Brushes and cloths that are not properly cleaned can trap dirt and debris, which might scratch the car during the washing process.
- Harsh Chemicals: Historically, some car washes used harsh chemicals that could strip wax and degrade paint over time. Modern car washes, however, use specially formulated, pH-balanced detergents that are tough on dirt but gentle on paint.
- Lack of Customization: Older automatic car washes often lacked the ability to adjust settings according to different vehicle sizes and shapes, potentially leading to suboptimal washes that could damage vehicles.
At Soapy Shark, we are acutely aware of these issues and have taken steps to ensure they are a thing of the past. In short, in a well-maintained automatic car wash your chances of damaging your car are less likely.
Some FAQs Related to Automatic Car Washes
To clear up any confusion and address the biggest misconceptions about automatic car washes, here are some frequently asked questions:
Q: Do automatic car washes damage paint?
Absolutely not. Modern car washes use advanced technology with soft materials designed to clean efficiently without scratching.
Q: Can frequent washing damage car paint?
On the contrary, it’s beneficial to wash your car frequently. It helps remove harmful substances like road salt and bird droppings, which can damage the paint more than regular washing. For optimal care, check out our detailed guide on how often you should be washing your car to find the best routine for your vehicle.
Q: What kind of soap should be used in car washes?
A: The choice of soap you use to wash your car is crucial. We use pH-balanced, vehicle-safe detergents that are tough on dirt but gentle on your car’s finish.
Q: What is the best way to dry my car after a wash to avoid scratches?
A: Using high-quality, soft microfiber towels is ideal, or allowing for a touch-free air dry is another excellent option.
This brings us to the end of our guide. We hope we were able to answer some of your questions and dispel some of the myths surrounding automatic car washes.
Ready to see the shine for yourself??
At Soapy Shark Car Wash, we’re not just in the business of washing cars, we’re in the business of caring for them. Our methods ensure that your vehicle is not just clean but protected and preserved against the elements.
Learn more about our services at Soapy Shark Car Wash. Visit us in Okeechobee or Lake View for a professional clean that gets you back on the road looking great. We do the dirty work while you enjoy the ride.