Can You Take Your Electric Vehicle Through an Automatic Car Wash
Guide: Taking an Automatic Vehicle to the Car-wash
Guide: Taking an Automatic Vehicle to the Car-wash
Many owners of an automatic vehicle ask themselves the following question: How do I drive into the car wash with an automatic? In this article, you will get all the important information on this topic and learn
- which obligations you have as a car wash operator to inform your customers
- and how by doing so can help you avoid accidents and damage in your car wash.
When entering a car wash, there is usually the following notice for vehicles with automatic transmission: "Select neutral, automatic selector lever to 'N", switch off the engine, do not steer, do not brake. "
However, these instructions no longer apply to many automatic vehicles of the newer generation. This is due to the automatic parking brake, which is fitted in many new vehicles. This works differently thanthe traditional handbrake, because it is activated as soon as the engine is switched off. In a conveyor tunnel car wash, this can cause the brake to lock the tires and the car to jump out of the automatic conveyor system.
The consequences resultin expensive damage to the vehicle and the car wash itself in the worst case, the car blocks the entire car wash and subsequent vehicles are pushed into each other.
What many do not know: As a car wash operator, you have a duty to inform your customers of these possible dangers!
Car wash operators must make customers aware of dangers
According to a court ruling from 2018, operators must warn that some automatic vehicles require the ignition to be switched on during the washing process to prevent the parking brake from being activated.
If this information is not provided, the operator is liable for any damage caused!
It is therefore advisable to replace the signage if necessary in order to avoid liability.
In the following topic, you will learn about the possible damage that can occur in automatic vehicles and how to avoid it.
Tips for driving through the car wash with an automatic
When driving an automatic car into the car wash, the vast majority of damage occurs at two critical points: when driving in and driving out.
Driving into the car wash: Parking brake must be deactivated.
When driving into the car wash, the following points must be observed once the vehicle reaches the start of the conveyor chain.
- The gear selector in the N position
- Engine off
Now there are two possibilities how the automatic parking brake of an automatic vehicle depending on type and model year can react:
Case 1: The automatic parking brake engages when the engine is switched off (normally recognizable by an illuminated P symbol in the cockpit).
- In this case, the ignition must be turned back on and remain on the whole time the car is passing through the car wash so that the parking brake does not block the conveyor chain of the car wash.
Case 2: The automatic parking brake does not engage as soon as the engine is switched off.
- In this case, nothing more needs to be done.
Alternatively, the vehicle's "Auto Hold" function can be deactivated before driving into the car wash. After washing, it should be reactivated immediately, because it makes an important contribution to road safety.
Driving out: How to safely exit the conveyor belt.
Again, there are two possibilities that require different approaches.
Case 1: The vehicle is completely released from the conveyor chain.
- Usually a small jolt can be felt when the conveyor belt has released the rear wheels of the vehicle. In addition, a visual signal appears in the form of a green traffic light, a sound or a recorded announcement. The driver can then select "D" and drive out of the car wash.
Case 2: The exit signal appears, but the wheels are still in the conveyor belt.
- With automatic cars, the brake usually has to be tapped lightly in order to drive off. The problem: In a car wash, braking on the conveyor belt is not permitted and can potentially cause damage. Therefore, the pedal should only be tapped very gently, then "D" engaged directly and the vehicle driven off.
Further tips for avoiding damage
Modern cars have many automatic control systems that are very useful, but can cause problems in the car wash. These pertain to both automatic vehicles and those with manual transmissions.
Automatic start-stop: The main thing is not to brake!
Most automatic vehicles have an automatic start-stop system. But this is only activated when the brake is applied. However, this should generally be avoided in a conveyor tunnel car wash.
Sometimes the automatic start-stop system also activates after a while in the "N" position. It is therefore advisable to switch this off completely before driving into the car wash.
Deactivate rain sensor
Normally a useful feature, it should be deactivated in the car wash, especially when passing through the car wash with the engine running. Otherwise, the vehicle's wiper blades may be damaged.
Deactivate parking sensors
These sensors at the front and rear detect a possible collision risk in the brushes and therefore beep continuously while passing through the car wash. They should therefore be deactivated as a precaution.
Bonus tips: Aerial, side mirrors, windscreen wipers
Most drivers are familiar with these tips, but it still doesn't hurt to point them out:
- Remove aerial
- Fold in side mirrors
- Protect rear window wipers with plastic cover (you should keep these at the entrance or have them ready at the counter).
Please note: The contents of this article are not legally binding and exclude any liability.
Is It Safe to Take an Electric Vehicle Through a Carwash?
Keeping your EV on the road requires regular maintenance. You top off the fluids, rotate the tires, and check the brakes. You also clean your car to preserve the paint. But is it safe to take an electric vehicle through a carwash?
Why people are concerned about taking an EV through a carwash
Electric vehicles are expensive, so owners want to ensure they arent damaging their EVs by driving them through a carwash. Plus, were always taught that water and electricity are a dangerous combination, so it makes sense that EV owners would be wary of carwashes.
Though the cars body isnt the problem, the question arises about the battery system. You usually wouldnt expose the battery components to water because, in some cases, too much water can short out electric parts, especially if youre dealing with salt water, like in a flood situation.
Replacing an EV battery could cost anywhere from around $3,000 to $15,000. The last thing you would want is to risk damaging the battery and its components without knowing whether sending your electric vehicle through a carwash would damage it. So, could you safely clean your electric vehicle at a carwash?
Is it safe for an electric vehicle to go through a carwash?
Youll be relieved to know that taking an electric vehicle through a carwash is perfectly safe. Its not all that different from driving your EV in the rain. Sure, a carwash has power jets that spray water at a higher velocity than rain, but your car will be OK if it gets wet.
The main reason why its safe to take your EV through a carwash is that automakers take steps to ensure their vehicles meet car safety requirements. One such measure is making the car essentially water-resistant. Although automobiles cant withstand major floods, they can still take on a small amount of water, which could happen in real-life driving.
Manufacturers test their products rigorously before allowing their vehicles to be sold to consumers. If an electric vehicle can pass strict testing, it can handle a carwash that focuses the water onto the cars exterior and not on the battery or its electrical components.
What about hybrids?
Hybrids are vehicles that run on a gas-powered engine and an electric motor. The car could run on both power sources simultaneously or only one of them at any given time. However, the electric motor alone can power the vehicle for only so long. Once its charge is up, the gas engine takes over.
Plug-in electric vehicles (PHEVs) work much like mild hybrids because they run on a combination of gas and electric motors. However, PHEVs, like EVs, need to be recharged through a power outlet, while mild hybrids recharge automatically through their regenerative braking systems or gasoline engines.
Both types of hybrids have electrical components similar to those in fully electric vehicles. So these vehicles are just as safe in the water as EVs, according to Driving Electric. This type of car goes through the same waterproof testing because manufacturers must meet certain safety requirements on all vehicles they produce.
EVs are great because they cost less to maintain and are better for the environment than internal combustion engine cars. And now that you know you wont get electrocuted or destroy your electric vehicle at the carwash, you can drive even more confidently.
Can an electric car go through a car wash?
Even though the popularity of electric cars continues to grow, there are still some misconceptions about them. As we all know, water and electricity dont mix, and for some this begs the question: can an electric car go through an automated car wash? The answer is yes.
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Interestingly, however, in a survey conducted by the UK Governments Go Ultra Low campaign, 42% of respondents answered no to the same question. It is in fact completely safe to go through a car wash in an electric car.
Why its okay to take an electric vehicle through a car wash
For as long as weve had electric appliances and domestic plug sockets, weve had it drilled into us never to mix water and electricity whether you learnt through a stern public information film as a child or from first-hand experience, for most of us its second nature to take care around electricity. Luckily, there are plenty of measures in place to make sure electric cars are weather and car-wash-proof.
All cars, whether theyre electric or otherwise, have to be thoroughly tested before they can go on sale. Theres even something called the soak test where cars are submerged in near-flood levels of water to check for potential leaks to make sure everything is safe.
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It goes without saying that electric cars are perfectly safe to drive in the rain as well. Look at it this way: your petrol or diesel cars engine would be destroyed if it filled up with water, yet car washes and rainy days are commonplace. Its the good design on the part of the car makers that means its incredibly rare for this to happen.
Is there anything I should be aware of when washing my electric car?
Washing your electric car is the same as washing any other kind of vehicle - theres little damage you can do to an electric car orvan. The same is true of allplug-in hybrid vehicles, which are tested to the same degree.
In all cases, all of the high-voltage components are hidden deep within the bodywork, with seals ensuring there's no danger of fire. You wouldnt let water get into the petrol tank when washing a petrol car, so avoid scrubbing exposed electrical contacts and youll be fine. If you're looking for a more thorough guide to cleaning your car, see ourfull guide packed with advice for you.
How Do You Wash an Electric Car?
As with any car, electric vehicles (EVs) need to be washed and maintained to keep them in top condition.
Washing an EV may seem complicated, butit's a breeze with the right knowledge and tools.
In this post, we'll cover everything you need to know about washing your EV, including how to prepare your car for automatic car washes, handwashing best practices, and why some EV owners may still avoid automatic car washes.
Whether you're a seasoned EV owner or a newbie, read on to learn how to keep your car looking and running its best.
Taking care of yourEV in this way is one of the many strategies that can help keep your electric car maintenance costs down over time.
Cleaning EVs in Car Wash Tunnels
Taking your vehicle through a car wash tunnel can be a convenient and safe way to get it cleaned.
However, it's important to keep in mind that EVshave different needs than traditional diesel cars.
While car wash tunnels can be a quick and efficient way to clean your car, you need to be careful to avoid damaging the car's electric components.
Can I Take My EV Through A Car Wash?
The short answer is yes. EVs can be taken through various automatic car washes, including tunnels, jet wash systems, and rollovers.
However, many car washes use high-pressure water and harsh chemicals that can damage the car surface and also electric components, such as the battery or charging port.
Therefore, it's important to look for car washes that use soft brushes, gentle chemicals, and low-pressure water.
Some car washes even have specific settings for EVs, which can help to further reduce the risk of damage.
Before taking your vehicle through a car wash, you should also take some time to prepare it for its cleaning.
How to Prep Your EV Before Taking It Through An Automated Car Wash
Before you start, it's important to prepare the vehicle to ensure it's protected and ready for a good wash. Here are some steps you can take to prep your EV:
Check Your Owner's Manual: The first thing you should do is check the owner's manual to learn if there are any specific recommendations for washing yourEV. This will give you a better idea of what to expect and how to properly prepare your car.
Secure Loose Items:Make sure you secure floor mats, phone holders, or any other accessories in the car that couldgetdislodged or snagged during a wash.
Close All Windows and Doors: Make sure all doors and windows are tightly closed to prevent water from entering the car. If water does get inside, it can damage the electrical components, including electric motors and batteries.
Protect the Charging Port: If your EV has a charging port, you'll want to protect it before entering the car wash tunnel. Some car washes provide a protective cover you can use, but if not, you can use a plastic bag or cover the charge port with tape to prevent water from entering.
Turn Off the Car: Before entering the car wash tunnel, turn the car off and remove the key FOB. This will prevent the car from accidentally turning on during the wash. Disabling all the automatic functions, including the windshield wipers and folding side mirrors is also a good idea.
By following these steps, you can prepare your EV for an automated car wash tunnel and help to prevent any damage to the car's electric components.
How Do I Wash An EV At the Car Wash?
When washing at a car wash, you'll want to follow these steps:
Choose the Right Place: Make sure the venue is safe for EVs. Things to look out for include soft brushes, gentle chemicals, and low-pressure water.
Turn off Your Car: Before entering the car wash, turn off the car and remove the key FOB. Make sure that the car is in neutral and the emergency brake is disabled.
Pick the Right Wash: Choose a wash that is appropriate for your car's level of dirtiness. If your car is very dirty, maybe run a pre-wash or undercarriage wash.
Follow the Instructions: Follow the instructions given by the car wash, and make sure to keep your hands and feet inside your EVat all times.
Inspect the Car: Once the wash is complete, make a review of your EV to make sure all the dirt and grimewere removed.
How Do You Wash An EV By Yourself?
If you prefer to wash your car yourself, here are a few things to keep in mind:
If You Use Using a Jet Wash
A jet wash can be a quick and efficient way to clean your vehicle. However, it's important to use the jet wash correctly to avoid damaging the electric components of your car. Here are some steps to follow when using a jet wash:
Choose the Right Jet Washer:Use a jet washer that's specifically designed for washing cars and has adjustable pressure settings. Avoid using high-pressure settings, as they can damage the car's paint and electric components.
Prepare Your Car: Before using the jet wash, remove any loose items from your car, such as floor mats, and close all windows and doors to prevent water from entering the car. If your EV has a charging port, protect it by using a protective cover or covering it with tape to prevent water from getting inside.
Rinse First: Start by rinsing the car with clean water to remove any loose dirt or debris.
Use Soap: Apply car wash soap to the car's surface using a sponge or mitt. If you can, use soap that is specifically designed for EVs.
Give it a Good Wash: Use the jet wash to rinse off the soap, starting from the top and working your way down. Use the adjustable pressure settings to find the pressure that's strong enough to effectively wash off the soap, but gentle enough to avoid damaging the car's paint and electric components.
Rinse it Again: After washing the car once, rinse it thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
Dry it Well: Use a clean towel or chamois to thoroughly dry the car. Start by drying the roof and work your way down to the sides and the bottom of the car. Make sure to dry all of the nooks and crannies, including the wheels and the charging port.
Handwashing EVs
Handwashing your EV can be a great way to ensure that it is properly cleaned and maintained, without risking any damage to the car's electric components. Here are some steps to follow:
Choose the Right Time and Place: Wash your car in a shady area or during a cooler time of day to prevent the soap from drying too quickly on the car's surface.
Gather Your Supplies: You will need a bucket, car-wash soap specifically designed for EVs, a microfiber wash mitt or sponge, and a clean towel or chamois for drying.
Rinse: Start by rinsing the car with clean water to remove any loose dirt or debris.
Add Soap: Apply car-wash soap to your EV's surface using a sponge or mitt. If you can, use soap that is specifically designed for EVs.
Wash it Well: Use the microfiber wash mitt or sponge to gently wash the car, starting from the top and working your way down. Rinse the wash mitt or sponge frequently in the bucket to prevent dirt and debris from scratching the car's surface.
Rinse it Again: After washing the car, rinse it thoroughly with clean water to remove any soapy residue.
Dry it Well: Use a clean towel or chamois to dry the car thoroughly. Start by drying the roof and work your way down to the sides and the bottom of the car. Make sure to dry all of the nooks and crannies, including the wheels and the charging port.
Why Avoid Car Washes?
Despite the convenience of car washes, some drivers still prefer to wash their cars by hand.
This is because they believe that hand washing is the safest way to wash a car, as it gives them full control over the water pressure and the cleaning solutions.
Also, some drivers may worry about the potential damage that car washes can cause to the car's paint and electric components.
FAQs
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