Is a Touchless Car Wash Really Safe for Ceramic Coatings?
Touchless car washes are quick, affordable, and avoid the brushes and mitts that can scratch your paint. But if you’ve invested in a ceramic coating, you might be wondering — is a touchless car wash really safe?
What Is a Touchless Car Wash?
A touchless car wash uses high-pressure water and detergents to clean the vehicle without physical contact from brushes or cloth strips. This reduces the risk of scratches but comes with its own considerations.
Pros for Ceramic-Coated Cars
- No Physical Contact: Eliminates the risk of micro-scratches from dirty brushes.
- Fast & Convenient: Ideal for maintenance washes between thorough hand washes.
- Good for Harsh Weather: Safe option when hand washing outdoors isn’t practical.
Potential Drawbacks
- Harsh Detergents: Some touchless systems use strong alkaline soaps that can degrade hydrophobic properties over time.
- Incomplete Cleaning: May struggle to remove heavy road film without physical agitation.
- Frequent Use Wear: Overuse of strong chemicals can shorten coating lifespan.
Best Practices for Touchless Washing with Ceramic Coatings
- Limit use to when hand washing isn’t possible.
- Follow up with a pH-neutral wash at home when convenient.
- Reinforce your coating with a spray protectant like Tough As Shell after every few touchless washes.
Verdict
Touchless car washes are generally safe for ceramic coatings when used occasionally and paired with proper at-home maintenance. For the best results, boost protection with Tough As Shell to keep hydrophobic properties strong.
Keep Your Coating Protected
Touchless washes are safer with a strong ceramic spray topper. Tough As Shell adds hydrophobic protection and keeps your coating performing at its best.
