In recent years, electric cars have become common in the US. People are becoming more and more interested in EVs because they have proven to be cost effective and beneficial for the environment. However, there is still a lot of uncertainty about this new technology, including the proper technique for washing EVs safely. It is important to make sure all of the myths about electric cars are debunked.
Can Electric Cars Go in Car Washes?
This is one of the many questions asked about EVs, and the simple answer is yes. Just like diesel and petrol cars, there are several ways to clean an electric vehicle. It is completely safe to wash electric cars in automatic car washes, tunnels, and jet wash areas.
Automatic car washes will not cause any damage to the electric system or batteries of the electric car because all of these systems are made to prevent water damage or intrusion.
However, to ensure safety and guarantee the best results, here are some general recommendations for washing electric cars with automatic equipment:
- Washing electric cars is not that different from washing diesel and petrol cars, but to make sure that you do it right, follow the recommendations given by the manufacturer.
- While in the wash tunnel, keep the ignition on and in neutral. This will ensure the battery power is low enough to disable all the automatic functions that will be dangerous inside the wash tunnel.
- Keep the side mirrors folded and remove all protruding objects from the electric car, such as the antenna.
- Check if the windows and doors are closed properly before driving it in the electric car washer.
Different Ways to Wash Electric Cars
Wash Tunnels
Car wash tunnels operate by using a conveyor belt to pull the electric car through the washing tunnel. Inside the tunnel, your electric car will go through all the necessary car wash steps, from pre-soaking to drying. The cleaning is done solely inside the machine, leaving your electric car completely clean.
When you use car wash tunnels to wash your electric car, keep the ignition on, the car in neutral, and the handbrake disabled. This will allow the wash tunnel to pull your car into position and move it through the wash tunnel.
It is also recommended to disable any automatic function of the electric car to avoid any damage and inconvenience while washing. Lastly, make sure that the electric car has sufficient battery before entering the wash tunnel to make sure that the electric engine will be used while washing.
Jet Wash Areas
When using jet wash areas, it is better to keep the electric car engine switched off. With this cleaning option, it is important to make sure your electric car doesn’t have any damage that may be affected while washing. Remove all the external elements, make sure that the windows and doors are closed, and fold all the mirrors.
In using a jet wash, make sure that the cleaning product does not dry on the surface of the electric car as it can dull the shine of the metallic parts of the car. What you can do to avoid this is to use the right wash gun for every stage of the cleaning process, and spray the vehicle from top to bottom.
Is It Safe to Take Electric Cars Through a Car Wash?
It is common knowledge that electricity is dangerous when combined with water. That’s why it is normal for people to think that it is not safe to wash their electric cars. However, manufacturers from all over the world have come to a resolution to make it happen. Before electric cars are introduced to the market, they are tested and approved to be completely safe in all conditions. There are certain tests that focus on soaking the electric car to make sure it will still be functional during rainy weather and after washing.
How to Clean Electrical Connectors in Your Car
When your electric car has been used for a long time, its electrical connectors will eventually need cleaning. In order to do so, you will need a special solution to clean the rust effectively from your connector. You can also make your own solution by using vinegar, baking soda, and Isopropyl alcohol. Being a first-time owner of an electric car can be difficult. You may have a lot of questions on how to care for, maintain, and wash it properly. For all of your electric vehicle needs, call Northwest Collision Center, one of the best auto body repair shops in St. Petersburg, FL. We are here to provide you with professional help to repair, repaint, and even answer your questions about how to properly wash electric cars. Visit our website to learn more about our services and contact us now!
