Does my brand-new car need to be professionally handwashed or if a drive through carwash is safe?

2024 HYUNDAI ELANTRA
150 MILES • 4 CYL • AUTOMATIC
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JEFF48
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  • 10 POSTS
I have a brand-new car and I wondered if it had to be professionally handwashed or if a drive through carwash is safe? Are the chemicals in a typical drive through wash harmful?
Jun 4, 2024 at 10:43 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

I would recommend hand washing or using a touchless car wash. The ones that have the rollers that spin and wash the car are prone to scratching the paint over time. No matter how much they are cleaned, dirt collects in the roller material and will lightly scratch the paint.

As far as the chemicals are concerned, they aren't a concern.

Let me know if this helps and if you have other questions.

Take care,

joe
Jun 4, 2024 at 1:23 PM
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