Many people wonder, what do car washes clean? Cars get dirty fast. Dust, mud, salt, and bugs cover them. Car washes help keep cars clean. But what parts do they clean? Do they clean just outside? Or inside too? Do they wash hard-to-reach spots? This article explains what car washes clean and how well they do it.
Types of Car Washes
There are many kinds of car washes. Each cleans your car in different ways. Here are the main types:
- Automatic Car Washes: Machines clean your car fast.
- Self-Service Car Washes: You use water and soap to wash your car yourself.
- Full-Service Car Washes: Workers wash your car inside and outside.
- Car Detailing: A deep clean for your car, inside and out.
What Parts Does an Automatic Car Wash Clean?
Automatic car washes clean the car’s outside surfaces. They use brushes, water jets, and soap. These washes clean:
- The car’s body – doors, roof, and hood.
- The windows – front, back, and sides.
- The wheels and tires.
- The undercarriage – the bottom of the car under the doors.
But the cleaning of the undercarriage depends on the car wash. Some car washes spray water under the car to remove dirt and salt. This helps stop rust. Others do not clean under the car well. Always check if the car wash offers an undercarriage wash option.
Does the Undercarriage Get Cleaned?
The undercarriage is the car’s bottom part. It often collects mud, salt, and dirt. Salt is bad because it causes rust. Rust can damage the car over time.
Many automatic car washes have special high-pressure water sprays for the undercarriage. These sprays wash away the dirt and salt. But not all car washes include this in the basic wash. You may need to pay extra.
If you live in a place with snow or near the sea, washing the undercarriage is very important. Salt from the roads or sea air can harm your car quickly.
Do Car Washes Clean the Inside of a Car?
Most automatic car washes do not clean the inside of your car. They only clean the outside. The windows may get cleaned from outside, but the inside stays dirty.
If you want your car’s inside clean, you need to use a full-service car wash or get car detailing. These services clean:
- Seats and carpets.
- Dashboard and controls.
- Windows from inside.
- Car mats and trunk area.
Detailing is the best choice if you want your car very clean inside and out.
What Does a Self-Service Car Wash Clean?
Self-service car washes let you wash your car yourself. You use a hose, soap, and brushes. You control which parts you wash. You can wash the body, windows, wheels, and undercarriage if you want.
Self-service car washes are good if you want to clean specific parts. But you must know how to wash well. Using strong soap and high pressure helps clean better.
Are Car Wash Extras Worth It?
Many car washes offer extra services. These may include:
- Underbody wash
- Wax coating
- Tire shine
- Interior vacuum
Extras can improve cleaning. For example, wax makes your car shiny and protects paint. Underbody wash removes salt and dirt from the bottom. But extras cost more money.
Think about your needs. If your car is old or used in rough places, extras can help. If you just want a quick clean, basic wash might be enough.
How Well Do Car Washes Clean?
Car washes do a good job cleaning most outside parts. Machines are fast and use soap and water evenly. But some dirt may stay, especially on tough spots like:
- Bug splats on the front bumper
- Road salt on the undercarriage
- Inside the wheels
For very dirty cars, a hand wash or detailing may work better. Also, car washes cannot clean inside the car well.
Credit: tommys-express.com
How Often Should You Wash Your Car?
Washing your car regularly helps keep it good. How often depends on your area and use. Here are some tips:
| Condition | Wash Frequency |
|---|---|
| City with little dust | Every 2 weeks |
| Near the ocean or winter roads | Every week |
| After rain or mud | As soon as possible |
| Rarely used car | Once a month |
Regular washing stops dirt from damaging paint and metal. Washing the undercarriage regularly stops rust.
Credit: about.oceanstatejoblot.com
Summary
So, what do car washes clean? Mostly, they clean the car’s outside. This includes the body, windows, wheels, and sometimes the undercarriage. Cleaning the undercarriage is important to stop rust. Not all car washes clean under the car well. You may need to choose the right package or pay extra.
Automatic car washes do not clean inside the car. For the interior, use full-service or detailing. Self-service washes let you control what you clean but require effort.
Extras like wax or underbody wash can help, but cost more. Washing your car regularly keeps it looking nice and protects it.
Next time you visit a car wash, you will know what parts they clean. Choose the right type for your car needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Car Washes Actually Clean The Undercarriage?
Yes, many car washes use high-pressure sprays to clean the undercarriage. This removes dirt, salt, and prevents rust. Quality varies by car wash, so choose one offering undercarriage cleaning for best results. Regular washing helps maintain your vehicle’s underside and prolongs its lifespan.
Do Car Washes Clean The Inside?
Automated car washes focus on cleaning the exterior only. Interior cleaning requires a separate service like auto detailing.
How Much Do You Tip For A $20 Car Wash?
Tip $3 to $5 for a $20 car wash, about 15-25% of the total cost. Tipping shows appreciation for good service.
Is It Worth Paying For A Car Wash?
Paying for a car wash saves time and protects your vehicle’s paint and undercarriage from dirt and rust. It suits daily drivers well.
