Pros and Cons of Using an Automatic Car Wash

With spring just around the corner, the lines at your nearest automatic car wash are surely going to be full. Nevertheless, is going through the automated wash a good idea? It may surprise you that these car washes can cause extensive damage. So let’s learn the pros and cons of using an automatic car wash.

Pros

Convenience

The real reason people decide on an automatic car wash is its convenience. All it takes is an extra hit of the button at the pump or a quick conversation at the corner car wash business to get it clean. Plus, it requires little to no effort on your part to get the gunk off your vehicle.

Improved Technology

Automatic car washes have come a long way in trying to best clean cars than in previous years. They wash a car more completely and thoroughly than they did originally. In fact, some automatic car washes may have dirtied your vehicle more than before you drove through. However, today’s fully automated washing facilities include cutting-edge cleaning technology. 

Touchless

Touchless technologies limit the possibility of paint damage. Suppose you can’t manually wash your car with high-quality microfiber towels or mitts. In that case, the touchless solution is optimal.

Cons

Choose Wisely

Choosing the incorrect facility might harm your vehicle. Specialists in automotive paint protection err on the side of caution and typically avoid automatic washes because of the destruction they can cause. For example, automatic car washes can damage your car’s exterior paint. It’s also not out of the ordinary for some customers to lose a mirror or antenna and even find dents after completion.

Leaves Water Spots

Even with industrial-level driers, your vehicle is susceptible to water spots. Most facilities use unfiltered municipal water, which has a greater calcium deposit. As the unfiltered water evaporates from the surface, those deposits dry quickly, leaving the spots behind.

Harsh Chemicals

Some fully automated washes feature an industrial level alkaline enhanced degreasing shampoo. These formulas are excellent for removing any substances stuck on the exterior. However, the abrasive soap leaves a trace on exposed paint, eating away at the coat and leading to corrosion and rust.

Verdict

After learning the pros and cons of using an automatic car wash, what is the best option for you and your vehicle? It depends entirely on how much you care about your car. If it’s an older vehicle with thousands of miles on it, the odds are you’re not too keen on its outward appearance. On the other hand, if it’s a new car right off the lot, you want to do your best to keep it looking sharp. Thus, if you want something quick and painless, automatic is the way to go. A manual wash’s tenderness, love, and care are better if you’re overly concerned about the exterior.