An electric car car wash visit is safe for most EVs, as long as the vehicle’s manual allows that wash type and you follow its instructions. The right steps can differ by model, model year, and wash equipment.
Before you pull into an automatic wash, close the windows and charge-port door, disable automatic wipers, and check how your vehicle should be secured. Start with the owner’s manual, then follow any instructions posted at the wash.
Is an electric car car wash safe for your model?
Start with the owner’s manual
Most electric cars can go through automatic car washes. Still, that doesn’t mean every EV is approved for every wash. Some manufacturers restrict the wash type, while others provide a setting for washing or keeping the vehicle in Neutral.
Check the manual for your exact model and year. Follow its directions for touchless, brush, and conveyor washes, along with any instructions about the charge port, mirrors, and vehicle settings. If the wash operator gives specific instructions, follow those too.
Automatic wash types are not interchangeable
A touchless wash sprays water and cleaning products without brushes contacting the vehicle. A brush wash uses rotating or soft-cloth equipment, while a conveyor wash may require the car to roll freely through the bay.
The choice matters. For example, Tesla’s guidance for some models recommends touchless washes. Other EVs may have different requirements. If you can’t confirm that a wash type is permitted, choose a hand wash or contact the vehicle manufacturer before proceeding.
Prepare your electric car before entering
A few checks help prevent water from entering the cabin and stop systems from activating during the wash. Complete them before the vehicle moves onto a conveyor or into the wash bay.
Close access points and disable automatic wipers
Close every window and make sure the charge-port door is fully shut. Check that doors, the sunroof, and the tailgate are closed as well. Remove loose exterior accessories if the manual or wash operator advises it.
Turn off automatic wipers before the wash begins. Sensors can trigger the wipers when water hits the windshield, which may cause them to move against wash equipment. Fold the mirrors only if your vehicle’s manual or the wash instructions call for it.
Use the correct wash mode or Neutral procedure
Some models have a dedicated car wash mode. Others require a specific sequence to keep the vehicle in Neutral and allow it to roll. Don’t assume that selecting Neutral alone is enough, especially if the vehicle has an electronic parking brake or an automatic hold feature.
Follow the steps in the manual and listen to the wash operator. Keep your foot off the accelerator, and don’t exit the vehicle unless the wash instructions tell you to do so.
How instructions differ by vehicle
Tesla’s Model Y manual describes Car Wash Mode, which closes the windows and locks the charge port. For an automatic wash, its Enable Free Roll setting keeps the vehicle in Neutral during the wash. Tesla’s Model Y cleaning instructions also specify touchless automatic washes for certain models. Confirm the guidance for your own Tesla and model year.
Ford’s Mustang Mach-E uses a different process. Ford says to stop, hold the brake, shift to Neutral, press the L button on the rotary dial, then release the brake after the confirmation message. Temporary Neutral Mode keeps the vehicle free to roll for 30 minutes. Follow Ford’s Temporary Neutral Mode instructions, and don’t substitute another model’s wash procedure.
Guidance can also vary within one brand. For example, the 2021 Hyundai Kona EV manual warns against automatic washes with rotating brushes. These examples show why an electric car car wash should always be chosen according to the vehicle’s own instructions, not a general rule for all EVs.
Fit a wash stop into a longer drive
On a long drive, combining a wash stop with other planned breaks can save time. Check the wash type and entry procedure before arriving, especially if you’re travelling in an unfamiliar area.
Charging plans can also shape your overnight stops. If a New York trip takes you near Albany, compare Watervliet hotels with EV charging when planning where to stay. A little preparation makes it easier to keep your vehicle charged and clean between drives.
Key takeaways
- Most electric cars can use automatic washes, but each model has its own requirements.
- Check the owner’s manual and the wash operator’s instructions before entering.
- Close the windows and charge-port door, and disable automatic wipers.
- Use Car Wash Mode or Neutral only as the manual directs.
- Confirm whether touchless, brush, and conveyor washes are permitted for your vehicle.
Frequently asked questions
Can water damage an electric car during a car wash?
EVs are designed for normal exposure to rain and routine washing, but that doesn’t mean every wash setup is suitable for every vehicle. Use the wash type approved in your manual and make sure the charge-port door and windows are closed.
Should I put my electric car in Neutral?
Only when the manual or wash operator instructs you to. Some vehicles need a particular sequence or a wash mode to stay in Neutral and roll freely. Using the wrong setting can interrupt the wash or prevent the vehicle from moving as required.
Is a touchless wash better for an EV?
A touchless wash is recommended for some models, but it isn’t a universal requirement. Check your manual for your specific vehicle. If it allows brush washes, follow the stated precautions and any guidance from the wash operator.
Keep the wash suited to the vehicle
Automatic car washes are a practical option for many EV owners, including drivers on long trips. Confirm the wash type first, prepare the car, and use the correct settings. The owner’s manual is the best guide for a safe, clean result.
Sammie O is the owner of Bud Car Wash, a 24 hour hand car wash and detailing shop at Shop #7, 44, 22nd Street, Ras Al Khor Industrial Area 2, Dubai. He writes the car care guides on this site based on work done in his own bay.
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