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Automatic car wash?
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I've had an 02 roadster for three years now and have never taken it to an automatic car wash for fear of damaging something (side mirrors being snapped off, high pressure water weakening the back window). With another winter here it sure is tempting to sit back in the auto wash instead of hand washing in the cold! Is it paranoia or am I in the minority?
Bryan
The primary reason most TT drivers avoid automatic car washes is the wheels... many of the OEM designed wheels for the TT are a little proud of the low profile tires... and those guide rails scrape the heck out of them.
I have found that I can get away with an autowash it is is one of those that has no guide rails... the washing device actually moves back and forth over your parked car.
However, I have a coupe... I have no idea of the convertible top's ability to withstand those overhead spinning slappy things...
I have found that I can get away with an autowash it is is one of those that has no guide rails... the washing device actually moves back and forth over your parked car.
However, I have a coupe... I have no idea of the convertible top's ability to withstand those overhead spinning slappy things...
Hand wash only ...
... especially a roadster. Get yourself some insulated rubber gloves, and access to some warm water, and you'll be fine. After washing, be sure to dry the top and all it's seals; open doors and trunk to dry as well, etc. Be sure to drive a few minutes after to dry out the brakes. You have to do these things even after the auto-wash (unless you really trust your heated garage).
You're not paranoid - but keep checking behind you.
... especially a roadster. Get yourself some insulated rubber gloves, and access to some warm water, and you'll be fine. After washing, be sure to dry the top and all it's seals; open doors and trunk to dry as well, etc. Be sure to drive a few minutes after to dry out the brakes. You have to do these things even after the auto-wash (unless you really trust your heated garage).
You're not paranoid - but keep checking behind you.
Previously winchou wrote:
Hand wash only ...
... especially a roadster. Get yourself some insulated rubber gloves, and access to some warm water, and you'll be fine. After washing, be sure to dry the top and all it's seals; open doors and trunk to dry as well, etc. Be sure to drive a few minutes after to dry out the brakes. You have to do these things even after the auto-wash (unless you really trust your heated garage).
You're not paranoid - but keep checking behind you.
Good info, thanks!
Bryan
I've owned convertibles for 40 years and NEVER use an autowash for the same reasons you discuss. They are particularly bad for cloth tops although black hides most of the problems.