What are the opinions on using an automated car wash? I.e. is it OK to leave a 991 coupe in a car wash that was designed for Corollas, Camrys and Civics?

If not, what do you guys do and how often?

 

I only go to brushless drive-thru car wash or hand wash places. Last time I went to 'Corollas' car wash places here's what happened to my rear left rim and tire.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/60293300@N06/6796080930/
Do not know if it was unique to one specific place or if it is a frequent issue as I only noticed during a pre-track inspection.

 

Do not know if it was unique to one specific place or if it is a frequent issue as I only noticed during a pre-track inspection.[/QUOTE]


SM_ATL:
Did you not hear any noise during the wash?

ChuckJ

 

Why ever risk going into an automated car wash? I rather have a dirty car vs taken a chance of damaging the car or creating swirls. I wash my car in the garage and it takes 15 minutes. This method works great as long as your not cleaning off caked on dirt.

http://www.autogeek.net/opnoriwash12.html

I bought my 2009 997.2 with 18k miles and I couldn't believe the amount of swirl marks on it. Swirl Marks reduce the look and shine of a car.
The swirls were produced from either an automated car wash or someone drying it with a dirty towel.

It took me about 3 days to remove them all with a Flex Polisher and Adams polishes. If you dont know about Adams you may want to check them out. There products are top notch and they have a great forum which is how I learned how to use the polisher. I have been using their detail spray for the last 5 years.

http://www.adamspolishes.com/c-48-fl...polishing.aspx

**FYI...I'm not affiliated with either of the companies above. I'm just sharing my recommendations on the products.

 

They are HORRIBLE !....I did the automated car wash thing for years due to convenience but it just destroys your paint.....so I did a bunch of research on what the pros use, bought all the products and equipment and I must say my cars look great....I love a clean car so I wash at least once a week....... somewhat time consuming but worth it.

This site is a great source for information and products (I have NO affiliation)
http://www.detailedimage.com/

 

SM_ATL:
Did you not hear any noise during the wash?

ChuckJ[/QUOTE]

Wasn't in the car... Otherwise this would certainly have been noticeable...
Not taking any chances in the future anyhow!

 

I never use the automated car wash, but I do use the self wash and rarely if ever, the brush. If I do use the brush, I first inspect it by hand for any sharp points that may scratch the paint, than I rinse any dirt off it with the spray nozzle. But if you keep your car clean (like once a week wash) than the pressure wash should be enough to keep it clean. Bottom line. Always hand wash cars you care about.

 

If you use the automated washes, make sure it's touchless and there are no rails.

 

If you guys use a pressure washer (gas), what angled tip generally works best without damaging the paint? 25 degrees?

 

I hand wash all the time!! To me it is therapy & I just enjoy detailing my car.