Your car’s paint is the first thing other people see. A good-looking paint job makes your car look great, keeps the resale value high, and makes you love to drive it.
So when your car gets filthy driving on Ottawa roads, the risk of damage might make you think twice about taking it to a car wash.
But are car washes really bad for your car’s paint, or is that a myth? And what’s the best way to clean your car without risking scratches and scrapes?
In this blog, we’ll break down the risks of different car wash methods, the common causes of paint damage, and how you can protect your car’s paint.
Comparing Local Car Wash Options
There are different types of car washes, and each has its own upsides and risks.
Automatic car wash: An automatic car wash is super reliable. They are more common than ever and are definitely convenient. You inch your vehicle onto a slow-moving conveyor belt, and it’s pulled through spin brushes, hot water jets, and wiping flaps.
While quick and cheap, an automatic car wash can also be rough on your car’s paint. The brushes they use can hold onto sand, dirt, and debris from other vehicles, which can then scratch your paint.
Cleaning agents can also be overly strong, and depending on how often you wash your car, you can sometimes strip away your car’s wax and protective layers.
Touchless car wash: Touchless car washes use high-pressure water jets and strong detergents to clean your car without any physical contact.
The touchless car wash method reduces the risk of scratches, but the chemicals used can also be harsh, leading to paint fading over time if you use them regularly.
Another downside: the high-pressure jets can sometimes not be that effective in removing grease and grime, causing a buildup that can cause micro-scratches when wiped off later.
Hand washing: Hand washing your car is considered the safest method, especially when done by professionals. However, even hand washing can damage your paint if you don’t do it right.
Using dirty sponges, the wrong scrubbing technique, or abrasive soaps can leave scratches and swirl marks.
Now that you understand what can cause damage to your paint, you can avoid it happening.
The most obvious risk comes from abrasive brushes and harsh chemicals, but residual dirt and debris being dragged across your paint by brushes and sponges can also cause micro-scratches that will dull your car’s finish over time.
Also, many car washes don’t dry your vehicle properly, leaving water spots that can etch into your paint if left for too long.
Car Washing vs. Car Detailing
Automatic car washes are everywhere, popular for their speed and the fact that you don’t even have to get out of your car. They’re also relatively inexpensive.
If you’re in a rush, you can have your car clean in a few minutes, as long as there’s no line. Many gas stations have them, so they’re easy to stop into when you fill up.
But they’re not without drawbacks – expect some sort of automatic car wash damage. The brushes they use have been known to carry debris which can scratch your paint, the cleaning agents can be harsh, and they don’t really dry your car. If having showroom-new paint is important to you, it’s something to consider.
If you really want to protect your investment, a professional car detailing service is the best option.
Professional car detailing isn’t just a wash, it’s a meticulous cleaning process that helps preserve your car’s paint. Professional detailers take their time properly cleaning every nook and cranny of your vehicle. They use specialized tools and high-end microfibre cloths also take the time to completely dry your exterior, making sure there’s no water spots.
At BEMAC, we use only the best high-end cleaning products designed specifically for car paint. These products are gentle yet effective, removing dirt and grime without damaging your car’s finish. With pH-balanced shampoo and a paint sealant, we take care of your paint.
Hand washing by a professional is so much better for your car’s paint than automatic car washes. Our skilled technicians use the right techniques to ensure your car’s paint remains pristine. We also offer top-of-the-line wax that brings out the natural shine of your vehicle and provides an extra layer of protection.
Depending on how often you get your car detailed, you can also extend the life of your vehicle’s paint, keep its resale value high.
How Bemac Can Help
BEMAC’s Professional Detailing Services
At BEMAC, we know your car is your baby. Our professional car detailers treat your car like royalty, using the best products and giving it the most thorough yet gentle clean it can get.
Our car detailing process begins with a thorough hand wash, using high-quality, paint-safe products. We then move on to more specialized services, such as paint correction, where we remove scratches and swirl marks, and apply protective coatings that shield your paint from the elements.
We offer eco-friendly options that are good for your car and the environment. We also use water-saving techniques and biodegradable products whenever possible, so your detailing is both green and effective.
Request a Quote
Are you in the Ottawa area and looking to get your car cleaned?
Protect your paint and bring it into BEMAC.
Request a quote on detailing and keep your car’s paint looking showroom fresh.
