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Can You Take a Truck Through a Car Wash?
Trucks are larger than cars, hence can You take them through an automated car wash? Yes, you can but not all car washes are equipped to handle oversized vehicles. Some car washes provide a height limit for vehicles allowed to go through the automatic wash. Therefore, it would be best to confirm with the car wash before driving into the bay and risk damaging your truck.
It’s essential to research on local car wash facilities that offer services specifically catered toward trucks or commercial vehicles. Some places have heightened capacities for a taller vehicle, from 84 to 94 inches high. These facilities offer proper space and equipment needed to clean large vehicles without causing damage.
Asking for referrals from other truck owners can shorten the process of finding the right location to wash your truck. Once you identify one, ensure you read their terms and guidelines or speak directly with their team if there is any specific requirement when washing your truck.
Therefore, next time you plan to clean your truck at an automated carwash, ensure it fits within the provided height limit or use facilities that cater to larger vehicles’ needs. Keep your truck looking shiny and new by taking it through a carwash more frequently since neglecting this leads to rust buildup and eventually shortens its lifespan. Don’t miss out on keeping your investment well maintained.
If you think taking a truck through a car wash is a good idea, you might want to consider the likelihood of your vehicle coming out looking like a muddy swamp monster.
Factors to consider before taking a truck through a car wash
Taking a truck through a car wash requires careful consideration to avoid damages and safety issues. Here are the important factors you need to keep in mind:
- Size of the truck and the car wash
- Clearance height of the car wash
- Type of automated car wash or hand wash
- Condition and age of the truck’s paint and body
- Installed accessories such as roof racks, antennas, mirrors, etc.
- Water pressure and water jet distance
Remember to ensure that your truck meets all requirements before entering a car wash. A helpful tip for a safe and efficient truck washing experience is to read the manual of both your vehicle and the car wash service provider.
Because nothing screams safety like driving a massive truck through a tiny car wash tunnel.
How to safely take a truck through a car wash
Taking a larger vehicle like a truck through an automated car wash can be quite daunting, but it’s not impossible. Here are some tips on how to safely clean your truck in the car wash without causing any damage.
- Choose the Right Car Wash
Look for a car wash that is designed to accommodate large vehicles or trucks. Automated car washes with high clearance or oversized bay doors are ideal for trucks; otherwise, you risk damaging the roof of your truck. - Prepare Your Truck
Before entering the car wash, remove any loose items from your truck’s bed and roof, such as toolboxes or bike racks. Adjust your side mirrors and double-check their position for added safety. Turn off your radio antenna as well. - Follow Instructions Closely
When you enter the automated car wash, make sure to follow all instructions provided by signage and attendants properly. Keep your hands on the steering wheel at all times, so you can quickly respond if there are any issues.
Additionally, remember that different car-wash locations may have varied guidelines and procedures. To avoid damaging your truck and wasting both time and money at the wrong washing station, ensure you inquire about their operational specifics before driving into the washing bay.
Pro Tip: If manual rinsing is offered at the end of an automated cycle, consider using it to get hard-to-reach areas clean more efficiently while reducing water spotting afterwards.
Skipping the car wash and driving through a mud pit will also give your truck a thorough cleaning…and a new coat of brown paint.
Alternatives to taking a truck through a car wash
It is important to consider alternative options when it comes to cleaning a truck, as taking it through a traditional car wash may not always be feasible. Here are some suggestions for how to properly clean your vehicle using alternate methods.
- Hand washing the truck with soap and water is an efficient and effective way to clean the vehicle without risking damage in a machine wash.
- Pressure washing the truck can help remove dirt and grime without the risk of scratches or damage to the exterior.
- Using a foam cannon attachment on a pressure washer can ensure thorough cleaning while also being gentle on the vehicle’s finish.
- Cleaning small sections at a time allows for better attention to detail, ensuring all parts of the exterior are properly cleaned and polished.
- Hiring a professional detailer who specializes in trucks ensures that the vehicle is cleaned and maintained by someone with experience working with larger automobiles.
There are several unique details to take into account when cleaning a truck, such as ensuring that all debris and mud are properly removed from underneath the vehicle. Using smaller brushes or tools can help reach difficult spots, like inside wheel wells or undercarriages. A thorough inspection of any chrome or metal surfaces should also be conducted to ensure no corrosion is present.
According to AutoGuide, “A good rule for touchless hand-washers (of any variety) is no closer than six inches from bodywork”. Knowing these tips can help keep vehicles clean and well-maintained while avoiding potential damage from traditional car washes.
Take your truck through a car wash if you want a clean ride and a good laugh watching your side mirrors nearly get ripped off.
Conclusion: Should you take your truck through a car wash?
When it comes to taking your truck through a car wash, it is best to avoid it. Heavy-duty trucks are not designed for car washes that are meant for standard cars. The high pressure and abrasive brushes can cause damages to the truck’s equipment, exterior and other areas. Additionally, the truck’s size can also pose problems in fitting through the car wash tunnels which may cause further damage.
A better alternative is hand washing or using a truck wash specifically designed for heavy vehicles. These services are equipped with professional tools that ensure thorough cleaning without causing any damage. Furthermore, if you choose to use a truck-specific wash, make sure that it has appropriate clearance height and width.
Pro Tip: Always inspect your truck after every car wash or cleaning service to ensure no damages have occurred.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you take a truck through a car wash?
Yes, you can take a truck through a car wash. However, it’s essential to choose a car wash that can handle the height and width of your truck.
What type of car wash is suitable for trucks?
A touchless or hand wash is the best type of car wash for trucks. Touchless car washes use high-pressure sprays to clean the cars, not touching them, while hand washes allow the employees to clean the car without causing any damage.
Can I wash my trailer in a car wash?
It depends on the size of the trailer and the car wash’s capability. Some car washes allow trailers, while others have specific limitations. It’s best to check with the car wash beforehand.
Is it safe to take a lifted truck through a car wash?
It’s not recommended to take a lifted truck through a car wash as the car wash’s height restrictions can cause significant damage to the vehicle’s structure. Hand wash or manual washing is the best option for lifted trucks.
How much does it cost to wash a truck at a car wash?
The cost to wash a truck at a car wash varies depending on the type of wash, location, and the size of the truck. However, the average range is between $15 to $30 for a standard wash.
Do I need to remove any equipment from my truck before taking it to the car wash?
It’s always recommended to remove any loose or hanging equipment to prevent damage to the truck or the car wash equipment. This includes mirrors, antennas, and any additional accessories attached to the truck’s exterior.