Electric Cars in the Car Wash: What You Need to Know?
Electric cars are becoming increasingly popular, but there are still many questions about how best to take care of them. A common question is: can I take my electric car through the car wash? In this blog post, we take a closer look at everything you need to know about washing your electric car at the car wash.
Is it safe to put an electric car through the car wash?
As an electric car owner, you can go through the car wash without any problems. Despite the fact that electricity cannot withstand water, most ev’s can just go through the car wash. They are well sealed and protected from water these days. Car washes also use less high-pressure water than before, which is better for all cars. Did you know that Tesla cars even have a special car wash mode? This can be found under Controls > Service > Car wash mode.
Still in doubt? There are some precautions and concerns you can consider before sending your electric car into the car wash. Let’s go through these step by step.
Check your electric car’s manual
Before putting your electric car through the car wash, it is wise to consult the owner’s manual (often also available online). Some manufacturers have specific guidelines or warnings for washing their electric models. Always follow these instructions to avoid damage and preserve your warranty.
Most manuals state that a car wash is not a problem, provided you take some precautions. Check this carefully, as instructions can vary by make and model.
The right stand for electric cars in the car wash
A frequently asked question is in which position to put an electric car in the car wash. Put the car in the ‘Neutral’ position (N) and with the parking brake on. This allows the car to roll freely on the conveyors without activating the motor or regenerative braking system.
Protect vulnerable parts
Although electric cars are well sealed, you can apply some extra protection to vulnerable parts just to be sure. Think of:
- The loading gate: Make sure the loading port is properly closed and apply additional tape if necessary to prevent leaks. Some models have a special cover for the charging port.
- Cameras, sensors and radars: Modern electric cars are full of technology that can be sensitive to high water pressure. While these are usually well protected, there is no harm in taking extra care and taping off where necessary.
- Windshield wipers: Fold up or secure the wipers so they do not become loose or damaged in the car wash.
Tip: You can always ask the staff for advice/help if you are not sure about something!
