If you are worried about your inner-car hygiene and regular maintenance, then a thorough car wash is all you need. Everybody likes a clean and glistering car and that’s when the car wash services come into play. But these automated car wash stations are quite expensive. Therefore, a self-service car wash has emerged as an eco-friendly, cost-effective solution.
The best part about this process is that car washing is completely under your own supervision. However, a self-service car wash can turn into a disaster, if not done properly. A bad car wash can spoil the entire paintwork. You don’t want that, right? So, here’s a guide for you to understand how self-service car wash can be carried out with a better understanding of the process.
Which self-service car wash is perfect for your vehicle?
The first question that pops into your mind when you opt for a car wash is whether an automated laser wash or manual high-pressure hose system is suitable for your vehicle. If the car owners have had the car for six months, then such a new vehicle will require a simple wheel cleaning product. You can spray the cleaner on the wheels. After this, you may go for an automatic laser wash and then use a microfiber cloth to dry the car. It is enough because complete cleaning can damage the clear coat. On the other hand, if the car is older, you can choose manual wash for overall cleaning.
Instructions for a self-service car wash:
Step 1 – Prepare your car for the wash
– Park your vehicle in the center of an empty bay.
– Remove the floor mats (if made of rubber or plastic). Keep them aside for cleaning at a later stage.
– Understand sprayer settings:
- Basic machines have three settings: wash, soap, and rinse.
- Advanced machines include pre-wash and wax settings.
– Set the dial pointing towards the ‘Wash’ or ‘Pre Wash’ setting.
– The amount of money you insert into the machine corresponds with the time duration.
Step 2 – Wash the car using a spray wand
– Pick up the spray wand and press the handle beneath the nozzle to release a pressurized water stream. You must stand at least 3-5 feet away from your car. If you stand too close while using a spray wand, high pressure can damage your car.
– Wash your car from top to bottom and don’t forget to clean the doormats separately.
– Switch from ‘wash’ to ‘soap’ setting to start a soapy stream.
– After applying soap, turn the dial on the machine from ‘soap’ to ‘rinse.’
– Rinse the bristles of the foam brush using the spray wand.
– Scrub your vehicle (especially wheel bays) with a foam brush.
Step 3 – Rinse the car and let it dry
– After scrubbing, take a full lap around your car to rinse all of the suds using a spray wand.
– Apply a fine layer of wax to the car surface (if the ‘wax’ setting is available).
– Dry the floor mats with a towel or rag.
Types of self-service car wash programs:
– Pre-wash
– Foaming with lance
– Foaming with brush
Any car needs cleaning and thanks to the latest technology, self-service car wash programs are more convenient now. When it comes to washing installation, you have to make the right choice. Local weather situation can also affect the car wash program, so you need a custom-made cleaning system. With the right understanding of the factors that impact car wash, you can perform a self-service wash like a car mechanic professional.